UNDP, Operation Hadin Kai strengthen partnership on non-kinetic operations in North East

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai, have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration on non-kinetic operations, civil protection and capacity-building to boost recovery efforts in Nigeria’s North East.

The commitment was reiterated on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Head of UNDP’s North-East Nigeria Office, Mr. Charles Nash, to the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, at the Command’s headquarters in Maiduguri.

Nash commended the military for its sustained cooperation with UNDP, describing the partnership as critical to stabilisation and socio-economic recovery in the region. He highlighted joint initiatives such as the Mental Health and Psychosocial Support (MHPSS) training for law enforcement agencies, which produced a training manual and an operational guide.

He disclosed that UNDP plans to support the nomination of wellness focal persons in 2026 and will continue focusing on institutional capacity-building, civil protection and sustainability. Nash also revealed plans to support early-warning systems through the deployment of CCTV-enabled long-range cameras to enhance civilian protection.

Responding, Maj.-Gen. Abubakar described UNDP as a key strategic partner, noting that non-kinetic operations account for the bulk of success in asymmetric warfare. He praised UNDP’s contributions to training, civilian harm mitigation and institutional development, stressing that restoring socio-economic activities depends largely on such engagements.

The Theatre Commander disclosed that the Nigerian Army is developing a Military Command and Control Centre linking 161 locations across the North East, with over ₦200 million pledged by the Chief of Army Staff to support the project. He called for close coordination with UNDP to avoid duplication.

Abubakar also urged international partners to encourage greater domestic responsibility amid global funding challenges, warning that reduced support could affect humanitarian and stabilisation efforts.

Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration in 2026 and beyond to promote peace, security and sustainable development in the North East.