The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Major General Ibikunle Ajose, has pledged to sustain efforts to provide a secure environment for humanitarian operations, civilian protection and the restoration of livelihoods across the North-East.
Major Gen Ajose gave the assurance on Thursday, October 8, 2026, when he received the Deputy Head of Office, United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), Mrs Patricia Mucheche, and her delegation at the OPHK Headquarters, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri.
The Theatre Commander said civilian protection remains central to ongoing military operations, assuring that the command would continue to take measures within its mandate to safeguard communities and support legitimate humanitarian activities.
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Earlier, Mucheche congratulated Major General Ajose on his assumption of office as the 16th Theatre Commander and commended OPHK for its sustained cooperation with the humanitarian community, particularly in facilitating access and the safe delivery of assistance to vulnerable populations.
She, however, highlighted security challenges affecting humanitarian operations, including threats from Improvised Explosive Devices, security concerns along Main Supply Routes and declining donor funding.
Mucheche called for sustained security measures along critical routes and farming areas, as well as improved coordination and timely information sharing to enhance the protection of civilians, humanitarian personnel and essential supplies.
Responding, Ajose reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to strengthening coordination with UN OCHA through regular engagements, information sharing and effective utilisation of the UN OCHA Desk Office at the Theatre Headquarters.
He also said the command would sustain efforts to enable affected communities to safely access their farmlands, rebuild livelihoods and gradually return to normal life.
The Theatre Commander further reiterated OPHK’s determination to consolidate operational gains, deny terrorists freedom of action and maintain a secure environment conducive to humanitarian assistance and socio-economic activities across the Theatre.
The engagement underscored the importance of continued collaboration between the military and humanitarian community in addressing challenges and protecting vulnerable populations in the North-East.
