U.N. Security Chief Visits Nigeria’s Conflict-Torn Northeast, Calls for Deeper Military Cooperation

BY: ADAMU ALIYU NGULDE

The United Nations Chief Security Adviser for Nigeria, Senyo Kufe, paid a courtesy visit on Monday to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) the Nigerian military’s joint task force battling insurgency in the country’s northeast as part of a nationwide tour aimed at strengthening coordination between U.N. agencies and national security forces.

Mr. Kufe, who assumed office in August 2025, described the North East as the “engine room” of Nigeria’s security landscape, acknowledging its central role in both national stability and humanitarian operations. He commended the Nigerian military for its professionalism and close cooperation with the U.N. Department of Safety and Security (UNDSS), noting that “without the military, U.N. staff cannot stand on their own in this region.”

The UNDSS delegation’s visit to Maiduguri, the epicenter of efforts against the Boko Haram insurgency, underscored the organization’s focus on ensuring the safety of humanitarian personnel and strengthening emergency response systems in volatile areas.

Mr. Udit Mehta, the UNDSS Area Security Adviser for the North East, expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for what he described as “purposeful leadership and unwavering support” in fostering civil–military collaboration. He said the visit aimed to deepen cooperation in security management and crisis preparedness for U.N. staff operating in high-risk zones.

Responding, Major General Abubakar reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to working closely with international partners. He highlighted ongoing military operations and humanitarian support missions, emphasizing the importance of continuous coordination with the U.N. and other stakeholders to maintain stability and improve civilian safety.

Discussions during the visit focused on emergency preparedness, disaster response, information sharing, and joint training initiatives to bolster operational safety and risk management. Both sides pledged to enhance communication channels and expand joint capacity-building programs.

The visit concluded with a brief ceremony, including the exchange of souvenirs, the signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph to commemorate the occasion. Mr. Kufe was accompanied by UNDSS officials Christian Munteanu, Security Analyst, and Major (Ret.) Nuhu Mantana, Field Security Associate. Senior OPHK officers, including Air Vice Marshal Essen Efanga, Deputy Theatre Commander, and other component commanders, were also present.