The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, says the command is strengthening its collaboration with humanitarian partners to improve access to communities affected by conflict.
He stated this on Thursday during separate courtesy visits by delegations from the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) Spain to the Headquarters Theatre Command in Maiduguri.
He said the engagements reflect ongoing efforts to support humanitarian operations that depend on secure access routes, efficient coordination, and improved communication channels.
He noted that sustained cooperation with humanitarian partners is essential in meeting the needs of displaced families, supporting health services, and enabling early recovery in conflict-hit areas.
While receiving the ICRC delegation led by the Head of Sub-delegation in Maiduguri, Diana Japaridze, the Theatre Commander commended the organization for its long-term support in crisis response.
He said the ICRC’s work in victim support, training, and humanitarian assistance plays an important role in high-risk environments.
“We will continue to strengthen the relationship with the ICRC and explore areas where cooperation can be improved,” Major General Abubakar said.
In her remarks, Diana Japaridze thanked the Theatre Command for its cooperation.
She said the visit was aimed at reviewing the security environment, assessing humanitarian access, and reaffirming the ICRC’s presence in the region.
She added that the ICRC’s work focuses on ensuring that people affected or separated by conflict have access to aid and family reunification services.
The ICRC delegation included Deputy Protection Coordinator Kouame Noel and the Armed Forces and Security Adviser, Lieutenant Colonel Babatunde Lawal (retired).
The Theatre Commander also received a delegation from MSF Spain led by Mr. Omer Sarikaya.
Mr. Sarikaya said MSF continues to provide emergency medical support in partnership with the Borno State Ministry of Health and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.
He highlighted MSF’s work in maternal care, disease prevention, cholera response, nutrition, and sanitation.
He said some field locations still face access challenges and stressed the need for continued military support.
In his response, Major General Abubakar described MSF as a major partner in delivering medical support to vulnerable groups.
He said Operation HADIN KAI aims to restore stability in the North East and that coordination with humanitarian organizations remains central to this goal.
“Our work can only succeed through strong collaboration with humanitarian partners like MSF,” he said.
