Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in Nigeria’s North East have been urged to strengthen their faith and remain spiritually grounded as they continue counter-insurgency operations in the region.
The Acting Director of Chaplain Services (Protestant), Nigerian Army, Colonel (Reverend) Bitrus Nyam, made the call on Monday during a courtesy visit to the Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI at the Maimalari Military Cantonment in Maiduguri.
Colonel Nyam said the visit, which comes ahead of Easter celebrations, was aimed at reinforcing the role of chaplaincy in addressing the spiritual and emotional needs of troops, particularly those deployed on the front lines.
He explained that the outreach would provide an opportunity to interact with soldiers, offer counselling and encouragement, and assess their spiritual wellbeing. According to him, activities lined up for the Holy Week would extend to frontline locations, where troops would participate in fellowship, prayers, and Holy Communion.
The senior officer emphasized that strong faith in God remains a critical source of courage, resilience, and success in military operations. He also assured troops of continued prayers and support from the Protestant community, while offering prayers for wisdom and guidance for commanders at all levels.
Colonel Nyam further stressed the need for chaplains to move beyond traditional places of worship and engage directly with personnel in operational areas, noting that spiritual support is essential for maintaining morale and discipline in both peace and wartime.
In his response, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East) OPHK, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, described the visit as timely and significant. He noted that spiritual mentorship plays a vital role in addressing behavioural challenges such as indiscipline, drug abuse, and other social vices that could undermine operational effectiveness.
The Theatre Commander commended the initiative, particularly as it coincides with the Easter period, adding that it reflects the Nigerian Army’s core value that “Victory is from God Alone.” He also highlighted the importance of Chaplain Services—including Protestant, Roman Catholic, and Islamic Affairs—in catering to the diverse spiritual needs of personnel.
He expressed confidence that sustained engagement by chaplaincy services would further boost troop morale, discipline, and overall effectiveness in ongoing operations.
The visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s commitment to the holistic welfare of its personnel, combining both spiritual and operational support in its fight against insurgency in the North East.
