North-East coalition backs new Operation HADIN KAI commander, urges unity against insurgency

A youth-based organization, the North-East Coalition Against Terrorism, has thrown its weight behind Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, the newly appointed Theatre Commander of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), expressing hope that his leadership will help restore normalcy to the troubled region.

In a statement issued Thursday, the Coalition said it was optimistic that, despite ongoing challenges, the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Chris Musa, would continue to keep insurgents under pressure.

The press release, signed by Convener Ismail Mustapha and Secretary Danlami Bukar, called on residents of the North-East to rally behind the new commander in the fight against terrorism.

The Coalition further urged young people in the region to resist any attempts to lure them into groups that do not have the people’s interest at heart.

The statement described the appointment of Major General Abubakar as part of the military’s broader strategy to inject fresh leadership into the fight against insurgency.

According to the youths: “It is a long time the North-East witnessed total peace. The region will continue to be behind until all segments of the society line up behind our troops to completely defeat those who have put us in this quagmire.

“We cannot continue like this. We must speak truth to ourselves on the situation in the region. How many investors can bring their business to the North-East?

“This is the time for the North-East to line up behind the Armed Forces under the Chief of Defence, Gen. Chris Musa who is working with the other service chiefs to restore peace in our region.”