The Armed Forces of Nigeria have once again
demonstrated resilience and operational superiority as troops of the Joint Task
Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, recorded significant victories against
terrorist groups across the region. According to a statement released by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media
Operations, to journalists on 20 March 2026, troops sustained aggressive and
well-coordinated offensives against Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS elements, leading
to the disruption of their activities and supply chains. In one notable
encounter on 13 March 2026 in Banki, Bama LGA of Borno State, troops repelled a
terrorist attack with superior firepower, neutralizing several insurgents and
recovering arms and ammunition. Similar operations in Gujba and Kaga LGAs led
to the arrest of key collaborators posing as legitimate traders, while troops
in Bita foiled infiltration attempts through effective surveillance, recovering
additional weapons.
Between 14 and 18 March 2026, troops
intensified follow-up operations, yielding further successes including the
arrest of a terrorist spy in Yunusari LGA and an informant in Damasak. In
multiple coordinated engagements across Njimtilo, Baga, Buratai and Damboa,
troops, supported by the Air Component and Nigerian Army Aviation, repelled
ISWAP attacks and neutralized several fighters, including a high-ranking
commander. In a major breakthrough at Mallam Fatori in Abadam LGA, troops
successfully thwarted a complex drone-assisted attack and, during subsequent
clearance operations, discovered 74 terrorist bodies alongside a cache of
weapons, including 38 AK-47 rifles, machine guns, RPG equipment and critical
operational documents. Additionally, on 19 March 2026, troops in Wukari LGA of
Taraba State intercepted two suspected gunrunners, recovering ammunition, cash
and motorcycles, with suspects now in custody for further investigation.
These successes underscore the growing
effectiveness of ongoing military operations and the synergy between the Armed
Forces and local support structures such as the Civilian Joint Task Force and
community vigilantes. Despite the evolving tactics of terrorist groups,
including the use of drones and infiltration strategies, Nigerian troops
continue to adapt, respond decisively, and maintain pressure on criminal
elements threatening national security. The sustained offensives have
significantly weakened terrorist capabilities, limiting their mobility and
disrupting their ability to regroup.
The
Armed Forces of Nigeria reassure citizens of their unwavering commitment to
safeguarding lives and property across the country. Nigerians are encouraged to
continue supporting security agencies with credible information, as the fight
against terrorism remains a collective responsibility. With renewed momentum and
strategic coordination, the military remains resolute in its mission to restore
lasting peace and stability, ensuring that terrorist elements find no safe
haven within the nation’s borders.