CLARIFICATION ON FALSE CLAIMS OF A FRENCH MILITARY BASE IN MAIDUGURI. (PHOTO). #PRESS RELEASE

 CLARIFICATION ON FALSE CLAIMS OF A FRENCH MILITARY BASE IN MAIDUGURI

The Headquarters Theatre Command, Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), wishes to address a misleading claim made by social media activist Mahdi Shehu on his X handle. Shehu alleged the establishment of a French military base in Maiduguri, North East Nigeria, supporting his unfounded narrative with a video clip that misrepresents the Acting General Officer Commanding (GOC) 7 Division, Nigerian Army, and a foreign military officer as being part of the French military.

We categorically state that there is no French military base in Maiduguri, nor are there any plans to establish one in the North East Theatre of Operation. The video in question depicts the Acting GOC 7 Division, Brigadier General Abubakar Haruna, addressing the press alongside a member of the British Military Advisory Training Team (BMATT). This event occurred on 25 October 2024, at Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, during the handover of equipment donated to OPHK by BMATT, which was received by the Theatre Commander, Major General Waidi Shaibu.

It is important to highlight the longstanding and fruitful military partnership between the Nigerian Defence Headquarters and BMATT. This collaboration has resulted in significant support, including training programs and the provision of Counter-Improvised Explosive Device (C-IED) equipment to enhance ongoing operations in the North East.

The claims made by Mahdi Shehu are baseless, deceptive, and a deliberate attempt to spread misinformation. Such actions, driven by malicious intent, aim to mislead the public and incite unwarranted sentiment. We urge the public to disregard these false narratives and rely on verified information from credible sources.

REUBEN KOVANGIYA

Captain

Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations

Headquarters Theatre Command

Operation HADIN KAI