The Commander of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), Maj.-Gen. Saidu Audu, has expressed confidence that Boko Haram and other armed groups operating around the Lake Chad region are nearing defeat.
Audu spoke during a courtesy visit to Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, in Maiduguri as part of his familiarisation engagements following his appointment as MNJTF Force Commander in November 2025.
The visit, according to the MNJTF leadership, was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the Borno State Government, a major stakeholder in the Lake Chad Basin Commission Governors’ Forum, while acknowledging the state’s sustained backing for regional security operations.
The MNJTF commander explained that the task force had adopted a robust operational framework designed to confront Boko Haram and allied non-state actors by targeting their strongholds across the region.
He assured the state government that MNJTF operations would continue to align with its overarching strategic objectives, focused on restoring lasting peace and stability within the Lake Chad area.
Audu noted that recent military advances by MNJTF troops, working alongside partner forces, suggested that the prolonged insurgency and related security threats were gradually being brought under control.
In his response, Governor Zulum congratulated Audu on his appointment and reiterated Borno State’s commitment to supporting the MNJTF in fulfilling its mandate.
The governor praised the armed forces and other security agencies for their continued efforts, stressing that their sacrifices had played a critical role in stabilising the state and creating room for recovery and development.
Zulum recalled the state’s past logistical and operational assistance to security agencies, highlighting its contributions to the success of key MNJTF operations, including Operation Lake Sanity I and II.
Describing Audu as a disciplined and forward-looking officer, the governor said he was confident that the new commander’s leadership would further strengthen the effectiveness of the MNJTF.
He urged the task force to sustain pressure on terrorist elements hiding in the Lake Chad islands and tumbus, areas he described as difficult terrains often exploited as safe havens during military offensives.
Zulum also emphasised the need for continuous troop presence, particularly on the Nigerian side of the Lake Chad islands, to deny terrorists the opportunity to regroup or launch attacks on civilian communities.
He concluded by reaffirming the Borno State Government’s readiness to continue supporting MNJTF operations, despite competing demands on its limited resources.