Troops of the Nigerian Army have repelled coordinated terrorist attacks in Borno and Yobe States, killing 29 ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters in a series of intense operations.
The unexpected offensives were carried out under Operation HADIN KAI, with air and ground forces working together to counter the insurgents.
Moreover, several logistics bases and attack platforms were destroyed during the engagements.
The Operation HADIN KAI offensive against ISWAP marks another significant push in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, confirmed the development in a statement issued on February 22, 2026.
According to the statement, troops under Operation DESERT SANITY V neutralised 15 terrorists during a precision raid around Lamusheri Village in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
The early morning assault followed weeks of intelligence gathering supported by satellite imagery and surveillance platforms.
The location had been identified as a launch pad for attacks and a logistics hub. However, troops encountered resistance as they approached the target.
“Despite coming under fire on approach, troops, in synergy with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, outflanked the terrorists and cut off their withdrawal routes,” the statement read.
During the firefight, 15 insurgents were killed while others fled with suspected gunshot wounds.
In addition, defensive shelters and supply structures were destroyed. Five tricycles and two vehicles used for logistics were set ablaze. Arms and ammunition were also recovered.
Meanwhile, terrorists attempted to infiltrate the Forward Operating Base in Limankara, Borno State. Alert troops engaged them immediately.
“Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have once again demonstrated clear combat superiority by decisively thwarted coordinated terrorist attacks in Limankara and Kukawa, Borno State,” the statement added.
Air support played a crucial role in Kukawa. Terrorists attacked from multiple directions using gun trucks and motorcycles. However, coordinated resistance forced them into retreat.
Air strikes destroyed one gun truck, killing four fighters. Further surveillance tracked fleeing insurgents on five motorcycles. A precision strike later eliminated 10 more fighters.
Recovered items included 13 AK-47 rifles, 16 loaded magazines, and handheld radios. Blood trails and shallow graves were also discovered.
Regrettably, one soldier lost his life during the operation. Some equipment was damaged by rocket fire. Meanwhile, wounded personnel were evacuated and are reported to be stable.
