Nigerian military have ramped up their offensive against
terrorism in the North East, scoring major victories as outlined by Major
General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, in a statement
from the Defence Headquarters. Through Operation HADIN KAI, ground troops, air
components, hybrid forces, and local security partners have maintained
relentless pressure, restricting the movements of Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS
insurgents across the region. Major General Onoja
detailed how these coordinated efforts have led to the neutralization of
numerous terrorists, the arrest of their informants and suppliers, the recovery
of weapons, and the disruption of their networks, ultimately creating safer
conditions for the resettlement of displaced communities.
Covering the period from January 1 to
29, 2026, operations spanned Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States, resulting in the
neutralization of scores of terrorists, the arrest of 74 individuals, and the
rescue of 40 kidnapped victims. A highlight includes the surrender of 44
terrorists and their family members, indicating fracturing resolve within enemy
ranks. In intense engagements, troops eliminated five high-ranking commanders
and three lieutenants, significantly weakening the insurgents' command
structure and operational effectiveness.
Targeted actions in specific hotspots,
such as Gwoza, Damboa, Mobbar, Askira Uba, and Konduga LGAs in Borno State, alongside Michika in Adamawa State and Damaturu in Yobe State, yielded further gains. These operations saw
additional terrorists neutralized, 17 arrests, and the liberation of 12 more
hostages, with all suspects and seized weapons now under military custody for
ongoing investigations. A key clash on January 22 at the Mandara Mountains
resulted in the takedown of commanders Basulhu and Ubaida, plus several
accomplices, along with a substantial haul of arms and ammunition.
Aerial support played a crucial role,
with the Air Component and Nigerian Army Aviation executing interdiction
missions and logistical airlifts to bolster frontline troops. A notable strike
targeted a newly identified ISWAP hideout in the Northern Tumbus, a known
hibernation spot for commanders and fighters, where gathered targets were hit
with rockets and bombs, neutralizing several insurgents and destroying their
gear based on battle damage assessments.
In a separate development, combined
ground and air forces confronted ISWAP elements in the Timbuktu Triangle,
neutralizing dozens, including senior
commander Qaid and his lieutenant Munzir, while others escaped with serious injuries. Surveillance has been
heightened around Bulabulin, Korengelen, and surrounding forests southeast of
Azir in Damboa LGA to locate and eliminate any remnants, ensuring no safe
havens remain.
Under the astute guidance of Chief of Defence Staff
General Olufemi Oluyede, the Armed Forces of Nigeria are persistently honing their strategies to
counter ever-changing threats, thereby cultivating lasting peace and stability
in the North East. Major General Onoja highlighted that these notable successes are the result of
flawless coordination among agencies, valuable intelligence from local
communities, and the unshakeable dedication of troops to their roles, all of
which are essential for upholding national security and enhancing the lives of
those impacted by conflict.
The Defence Headquarters is unwavering in its support for safeguarding lives and properties in the North East, committing additional personnel, state-of-the-art equipment, and intelligence resources to sustain these operations. With General Oluyede's leadership, the focus remains on proactive measures to prevent terrorist regrouping, support humanitarian efforts, and empower local communities, aiming for a future where peace prevails and residents can rebuild without fear.