Odita Sunday 
Defence Space Chief Assesses OPHK Operations, Boosts Intelligence Support in North-East Theatre
By Odita Sunday
The Chief of Defence Space Administration (CDSA), Philip Ilodibia, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Defence Space Administration to enhancing intelligence-driven operations in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency campaign, following an operational assessment visit to the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The visit forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen joint military operations and deepen collaboration between the Defence Space Administration and frontline theatre commands engaged in counter-terrorism operations.
During the engagement, the CDSA received detailed operational briefings on the progress of operations within the theatre, with particular focus on the performance of the recently deployed Modular Earth Observation Outpost (MEOO) Team.
Major General Ilodibia explained that the visit was aimed at gaining first-hand insight into the technical capabilities and operational contributions of the MEOO system, as well as identifying areas for enhanced integration of space-based intelligence into ground operations.
“This visit has provided an opportunity to assess existing capabilities and determine how best the Defence Space Administration can enhance intelligence support, improve information flow, and strengthen the efficiency of the Military Command and Control Centre within the theatre,” he said.
He further reaffirmed the DSA’s readiness to provide additional technical support, address identified operational gaps, and escalate challenges requiring high-level intervention.
The CDSA commended the Theatre Command for its resilience and operational successes, particularly in stabilisation efforts that have supported the resettlement of internally displaced persons across parts of the North-East.
He also paid tribute to fallen personnel, extending condolences to their families.
“On behalf of the Defence Space Administration, I extend our heartfelt condolences to the families of personnel who paid the supreme price in the course of these operations. Their sacrifices will never be forgotten,” he said.
Responding, the Theatre Commander, Major General Waidi Shaibu Abubakar, expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and impactful.
He noted that “the assessment will undoubtedly lead to actionable recommendations that will further enhance operational effectiveness within the theatre.”
The Theatre Commander highlighted the growing importance of technical intelligence support, noting that the integration of the MEOO platform has significantly contributed to recent operational gains.
“The successful integration of Defence Space Administration capabilities, particularly the MEOO system, has strengthened our intelligence gathering and operational precision,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Operation HADIN KAI to sustaining operational momentum in the fight against insurgency.
“We will continue to maintain operational tempo to achieve lasting peace and stability in the North-East, while prioritising target accuracy to minimise civilian harm and ensure efficient resource utilisation,” he added.
The visit featured inspection of the Quarter Guard, the Military Command and Control Centre, operational briefings, interaction with troops, and the signing of the visitors’ register.
Senior officers present included Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, Deputy Theatre Commander; Air Vice Marshal Ayodele Hanidu, Director of Earth Observation; Brigadier General Ugochukwu Unachukwu, Acting General Officer Commanding 7 Division and Commander Sector 1 OPHK; and Colonel Bala Musa, Principal Staff Officer to the CDSA, among others.
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