Insecurity: UNDSS Security Adviser Visit Troops In Maiduguri, Seeks Stronger Synergy For Security Management

Anthony Ufoh

Senyo Kufe, the Chief Security Adviser for the United Nations Department of Safety and Security(UNDSS), has urged military authorities in the country to collaborate with the UNDSS to stem the bud of insecurity in the bud.

Kufe made this statement on his familiarisation tour while on a courtesy visit to the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (JTF) North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in Maiduguri, Borno State.

According to the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North East Operation codenamed, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, who made this known to the public on the verified X account (formerly Twitter) of the Nigerian Army on November 12, 2025, he stated that Kufe described the North East as a strategic location to the country.

Lieutenant Uba wrote, “Kufe, who assumed office in August 2025, described the North East as the ‘engine room’ of Nigeria’s security operations, noting that the region plays a pivotal role in national and humanitarian security.

“He commended the Nigerian military for its professionalism and continued assistance to UNDSS activities, adding that the visit was also an opportunity to reinforce the bond between the UN and the Theatre Command.

“The Chief Security Adviser appreciated the Theatre Command for its support, security guidance and assessment, especially physical security.

“ Kufe added that his visit to Maiduguri will no doubt allow him to have first-hand information, noting that without military UN staff cannot stand on their own in the North East Region.

In his remarks, Mr Udit Mehta, Area Security Adviser and Field Coordination Officer, North East, expressed appreciation to the Theatre Commander, Major General Abdulsalam Abubakar, for his purposeful leadership, sustained collaboration, and unwavering support to the UNDSS.

He emphasised that the visit aimed to strengthen the partnership and seek enhanced cooperation in ensuring the safety and security of UN personnel operating in the North East.

Responding, the Theatre Commander, Major General Abubakar, reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to supporting the UNDSS in achieving its mandate. He highlighted ongoing military operations and rescue efforts in the region, stressing the importance of maintaining strong civil-military relations and continuous partnership with the UN and other international stakeholders.

The discussions during the meeting centred on strengthening collaboration in areas such as emergency preparedness, disaster response, information sharing, and security management. Both parties agreed to deepen joint training programmes and improve coordination mechanisms to enhance operational safety and risk management.

According to Lieutenant Uba, “The visit featured the presentation of souvenirs to the UNDSS Chief Security Adviser, signing of the visitors’ register, and a group photograph to commemorate the event.

Kufe was accompanied by UNDSS officials, including Security Analyst Mr Christian Munteanu and Field Security Associate Major Nuhu Mantana (Retired). Senior officers of OPHK, including the Deputy Theatre Commander, Air Vice Marshal Essen Efanga, Component Commanders, and Principal Staff Officers of Headquarters Theatre Command Joint Task Force North East Operation HADINKAI, were also in attendance.”