On March 30, 2023, the Chief of Defense Staff (CDS), General LEO Irabor, expressed his confidence in the combat readiness and operational posture of OPHK, particularly in the current counter-terrorism and counterinsurgency operations in Nigeria’s North East.
The CDS, who was in the NE Theatre on an operational tour, was obviously impressed by the Theatre’s own troops’ combat readiness and consistent victories. In addition, Maj Gen IS Ali, the theatre commander, and Brig Gen OM Azuikpe, the theater’s intelligence coordinator, briefed the defense chief on the operational actions of the theater.
In remarks made during the visit, Gen. Irabor praised the efforts made by the Theatre Commander and all of the officers and soldiers of OPHK to sufficiently restore calm and normalcy to the NE.
He charged them to stay resolute and committed in neutralizing the marauding terrorist elements of Boko Haram and Islamic State of West African Province while assuring them of his continuous support and provision of the necessary platforms required for their operations.
Prior to leaving, the CDS and his team paid a visit to wounded soldiers receiving care at the 7 Div Medical Services and Hospital. While there, he encouraged and empathized with the soldiers and gave them assurances about a guaranteed and better welfare program created for them and their families.
Other highlights of the visit included his interaction with the soldiers and airmen from OPHK, the gift-giving, signing of the guest book, and the group picture.
