A delegation from the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has visited the Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, in Maiduguri, Borno State, as part of ongoing efforts to bolster counterterrorism cooperation in the Lake Chad region. The visit occurred on May 20 at the Maimalari Cantonment and was led by AFRICOM’s Deputy Director of Operations/Cyber, Rear Admiral Cameron Chen.
Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development on his official X handle on Thursday, noting that the delegation was received by the Deputy Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Air Vice Marshal O.F. Akinboyewa. During the visit, the AFRICOM team received a detailed operational briefing on the current security situation in the North-East, including ongoing counterterrorism and counter-insurgency operations across the theatre.
Focus on Collaboration
Discussions between both sides centered on deepening collaboration in critical operational areas such as intelligence sharing, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) support, logistics interdiction, and improved operational coordination within the Lake Chad Basin. The delegation also reviewed ongoing multinational military efforts aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities and disrupting logistics supply networks used by insurgent groups operating across the region.
According to security sources cited by Zagazola, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration under existing counterterrorism and counter-insurgency frameworks. The discussions also included preparations for Operation Lake Sanity III, a multinational operation designed to strengthen regional security cooperation and intensify pressure on terrorist groups operating within the Lake Chad area.
Successful Visit
The visit was described as successful and concluded without incident. Military sources noted that international cooperation remains a vital component in ongoing efforts to sustain operational pressure on terrorist and insurgent groups in Nigeria’s North-East and the wider Lake Chad region. The AFRICOM delegation’s visit underscores the continued partnership between the United States and Nigeria in addressing security challenges in the region.
