Boko Haram/ISWAP Ambush in Gwoza, Borno State Kills One CJTF Operative as Security Forces Respond

A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), Hamman Ibrahim, 40, was killed in a suspected ambush by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters along Warave–Bayan Dutse Road in Gwoza Local Government Area, Borno State, on January 5, 2026. The attack occurred during a routine patrol of CJTF members and local hunters in an area that remains volatile despite ongoing counterinsurgency operations.
Following the ambush, troops from Operation HADIN KAI, alongside police officers and CJTF members, responded to the scene. Ibrahim was evacuated to the General Hospital in Gwoza, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. His body was released to his family for burial according to Islamic rites.
The incident highlights persistent security challenges in southern Borno, where local vigilantes and CJTF members continue to play a crucial role in supporting military operations against insurgent groups. Authorities continue investigations into the ambush to prevent future attacks.

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US Congressman Riley Moore Warns of Escalating Violence Against Christians in Nigeria, Cites ISIS ‘Convert or Die’ Threats and U.S.–Nigeria Security Cooperation

U.S. Congressman Riley Moore has raised fresh alarm over what he describes as a worsening campaign of violence against Christian communities in Nigeria, citing threats from ISIS-linked groups demanding that Christians “convert or die.” Speaking on Newsmax TV, Moore said he visited Nigeria in December as part of a congressional delegation sent at the direction of President Donald Trump to assess security conditions and humanitarian needs.

Moore recounted harrowing testimonies from internally displaced persons (IDPs), including women who witnessed the قتل of their children, families torn apart, and unborn babies killed. He said these accounts point to targeted religious persecution, not random criminal violence. According to him, extremist groups—such as ISIS-affiliated factions and Islamist militants active in Nigeria’s Middle Belt—are deliberately attacking churches, Christian villages, and IDP camps.

The West Virginia lawmaker stated that U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation has intensified, claiming recent joint military actions, including a reported strike around Christmas, helped deter attacks during the holiday period. While some details of these operations have not been independently verified, Moore said discussions are ongoing to establish a broader strategic security framework to strengthen Nigeria’s military capacity, improve intelligence sharing, and close operational gaps.

Rejecting explanations that attribute the violence mainly to climate change or land disputes, Moore argued that the rhetoric and actions of extremist groups clearly show a specific focus on Christian communities. He acknowledged that Nigerians of all backgrounds have suffered but insisted that Christians face targeted persecution.

Human rights groups continue to document widespread insecurity in Nigeria involving Boko Haram, ISIS–West Africa Province (ISWAP), and armed militias, with debate persisting over the root causes of the violence. Moore said his conclusions are based on firsthand observations: “What is happening in Nigeria is Christian persecution,” he maintained, urging sustained international attention and support.

Israel Offers Intelligence Sharing to Nigeria to Tackle Insecurity, Protect Vulnerable Christian Communities – Envoy

Israel plans to support Nigeria in addressing insecurity and protecting Christian communities through intelligence sharing and strategic cooperation, according to Israel’s Ambassador to Nigeria, Michael Freeman. The initiative, outlined by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, emphasizes working in partnership with the Nigerian government and respecting national sovereignty.

Freeman stated the support targets broader security challenges, including terrorism, insurgency, and violent extremism, not just threats against Christians. He highlighted Israel’s model of religious freedom, pointing to the thriving Christian population in Israel as an example.

Amid growing concerns over attacks on Christians in Nigeria’s Middle Belt and northern regions, the Israeli involvement is intended as cooperation rather than unilateral action, with all sensitive operations guided by Abuja. The ambassador declined to speculate on potential U.S. unilateral interventions in Nigeria, emphasizing that Israel will act only with government approval.

The announcement comes as Nigeria continues to face threats from Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandits, with recurring calls for international support to safeguard vulnerable communities.

Nine soldiers k!lled as their convoy ran into a landmine in Borno community

No fewer than nine soldiers lost their lives on Monday, January 5, after their convoy hit a landmine and came under fire from terrorists near Bindundul village, some 12 miles from Kareto, an area where Daesh-affiliated Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters were said to operate freely and often set up checkpoints.

According to two security sources from the Damasak brigade, the terrorists planted a mine that the soldiers stepped on. Unfortunately, about nine soldiers died instantly, while five others were seriously injured.

A member of the Civilian Joint Task Force involved in the rescue operation, Abba Kaka Tuja, added that an armoured vehicle was destroyed when the mine detonated, followed by sporadic gunfire from militants.

The soldiers were traveling from Maiduguri to Damasak, the headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area, when the attack occurred.

Boko Haram IED Attack Kills Nine Nigerian Soldiers, Injures Several in Borno State

At least nine Nigerian soldiers have been killed and several others injured in Borno State following an explosion caused by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by Boko Haram, SaharaReporters has confirmed. The incident occurred near Gubio as soldiers were returning from Maiduguri and stopping at a camp along the route.

A military source clarified that the explosion, not an ambush, caused the fatalities and serious injuries, with some soldiers suffering severed limbs due to the blast’s force. The affected soldiers belonged to the 145 Damasak unit under the 5th Brigade, Maiduguri.

This attack is part of an ongoing pattern of assaults by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) targeting military formations and patrol routes in northeastern Nigeria using explosives and coordinated attacks. The Nigerian Army has not yet issued an official statement regarding the incident.

This marks the latest in a series of violent insurgent activities that continue to challenge security efforts in the North-East.

US Lawmaker Riley Moore Condemns ISWAP’s Fresh Threat Against Nigerian Christians After Adamawa Attack, Calls It Clear Religious Persecution

A United States lawmaker, Rep. Riley M. Moore of West Virginia, has strongly condemned a reported threat by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) against Christians in Nigeria, describing it as blatant religious persecution. Moore reacted to reports that ISWAP released an image of a Christian village in Adamawa State set ablaze, accompanied by a warning declaring Christians across Nigeria as “legitimate targets.”

In a statement shared on his official X account, Moore said the threat leaves no doubt that Christians in Nigeria are being targeted solely because of their faith. He rejected explanations that frame the violence as being driven by land disputes or climate-related factors, insisting it is persecution based on religion.

According to reports, ISWAP allegedly warned Christians to convert to Islam or face death, stating they could “spare their blood” by converting or paying the jizyah tax. Moore noted that such language mirrors tactics historically used by ISIS in other conflict zones around the world.

The congressman also praised ongoing cooperation between the United States and Nigeria in combating extremist violence, expressing support for efforts by the U.S. government to counter jihadist groups and protect vulnerable Christian communities.

Nigeria has endured years of attacks by Boko Haram and its ISWAP faction, particularly in the northeast, with rights groups repeatedly warning that Christian communities are disproportionately affected. Moore’s remarks add to growing international calls for stronger action and increased global attention to religious persecution and insecurity in Nigeria.

Nigerian Troops Recover Boko Haram Drone, Arms Cache in Borno, Neutralize Insurgents

Nigerian troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with volunteer forces and local hunters, have recovered a surveillance drone, arms, and ammunition from Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in Borno and Adamawa states. The ultra-light drone was reportedly intended for monitoring troops and residents.

In separate operations, soldiers neutralized three insurgents, arrested four suspected ISWAP informants linked to a deadly attack in Dubang village, and intercepted a logistics supplier aiding terrorists. Additionally, troops cleared multiple abandoned insurgent camps in Sambisa Forest, seizing AK-47 rifles, ammunition, hand grenades, and safely detonating IEDs.

The military credited the success to strong collaboration with local communities, highlighting the vital role of intelligence from residents and volunteer forces in counter-terrorism efforts.

OPHK Arrests Suspected Suicide Bomber, Intercepts IED Materials in Borno

The Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai has recorded a significant operational success with the arrest of a suspected suicide bomber and the interception of materials intended for the manufacture of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Borno State.

The arrests followed sustained joint operations and credible intelligence gathering aimed at securing Banki town in Bama Local Government Area, conducted by troops of 152 Task Force Battalion, in collaboration with other security agencies.

On Monday, 29 December 2025, personnel deployed to the Banki Central Mosque apprehended a suspected suicide bomber identified as Abubakar Mustapha.

The suspect was found in possession of primed IED components, indicating imminent intent to carry out an attack.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect hails from Bama Local Government Area and was further discovered to be in possession of additional incriminating materials linked to terrorist activities.

He is currently undergoing detailed interrogation to establish his sponsors, collaborators, and possible links with terrorist networks operating within the area.

In a related development, troops deployed to the Cameroon–Nigeria border gate intercepted a peugeot vehicle conveying six bags of urea fertiliser, a critical precursor material commonly used in the production of IEDs.

Both the vehicle and fertiliser were immediately taken into military custody.

Further exploitation of intelligence arising from the interception led to the arrest of the fertiliser dealer, as well as the recovery of an additional six bags of urea fertiliser, bringing the total seized items to twelve bags.

All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and necessary legal action.

Troops of Joint taskforce north east OPHK continue to dominate their areas of responsibility through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and sustained presence, in order to deny JAS/ISWAP terrorists freedom of action and prevent attacks on civilian populations as well as critical infrastructure.

The morale and fighting efficiency of troops remain high and satisfactory as operations continue in line with the mandate to restore lasting peace and security across the North East.

The military reassures the general public of its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property and urges citizens to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies in the support of ongoing counter-terrorism operations.

Pellets of Death: Nigerian Air Force ‘Precision’ Airstrikes in Borno Kill Civilians, Destroy Over 50 Vehicles, Raise Concerns About Targeting Errors

Reports indicate that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes on December 13–14, 2025, in Mararaba, Borno State, targeting alleged ISWAP militants, killed six civilians, injured three, and destroyed around 50 vehicles. Victims included commercial drivers, fishermen, and farmers conducting daily business. Survivors claim they were falsely labelled as bandits, and airstrikes struck the same location twice, leaving lasting trauma.
Despite repeated inquiries, NAF has not officially addressed civilian casualties, though it had previously assured protection during operations. The Borno State government also confirmed attempts to obtain information from the Air Force without success. Historical data show NAF has repeatedly caused civilian casualties in prior airstrikes, raising questions about targeting accuracy and operational ethics. Families of victims are calling for accountability and justice.

US Resumes Surveillance Flights Over North-East Nigeria After Sokoto Airstrikes

The United States has resumed intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations over Nigeria’s north-east, focusing on militant activity in the Sambisa Forest, days after airstrikes on ISIS fighters in Sokoto State.

The development was disclosed on Saturday by Sahel-focused t+rrorism tracker Brant Philip, who shared flight-tracking data showing a US aircraft operating over Borno State. According to the data, the aircraft was a Gulfstream V — a long-range jet often modified for ISR missions.

“The United States resumed ISR operations today on ISWAP in the Sambisa forest, Borno State in northeast Nigeria, after a pause of one day following the strikes in Sokoto State,” Philip wrote on X. He explained that Saturday’s operation targeted the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the ISIS affiliate active mainly in Nigeria’s north-east and the Lake Chad basin.

Flight-tracking records reviewed by open-source analysts show that the US began its current ISR missions over Nigeria on November 24, with aircraft taking off from Ghana, a key logistics hub for the American military in West Africa.

The same aircraft, linked to Tenax Aerospace, a US special mission aircraft provider, has reportedly flown over Nigeria almost daily since then. Sources familiar with the operation said the flights are aimed at monitoring militant groups and tracking an American pilot k+dnapped in neighbouring Niger Republic.

The renewed US activity comes weeks after Nigeria’s National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, met with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth in Washington amid tensions over President Donald Trump’s threats of military intervention.

Following the meeting, Hegseth said the US would work “aggressively” with Nigeria to end what he described as the “persecution of Christians by jihadist t+rrorists.”

Thursday night’s airstrikes in North-West Nigeria, reportedly targeting ISIS-linked militants, were described by Trump as the “first fulfillment” of that pledge. “More str+kes would follow,” the US President warned.

Borno South Senator Ndume Calls for Nigeria-US Military Strikes Against Boko Haram, ISWAP in North-East

Senator Ali Ndume, representing Borno South, has urged the Nigerian government to expand its ongoing military collaboration with the United States to the North-East, following a US airstrike targeting ISIS militants in Sokoto State. Ndume, a former Senate Committee on Army chairman, highlighted that extending joint operations to Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds—including Lake Chad, the Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa Forest—would significantly weaken terrorist groups. He also called for deeper intelligence sharing and logistical support, including attack helicopters, while commending President Bola Tinubu’s record defence budget for 2026 and emphasizing transparency in its execution. The remarks come amid rising concerns over sovereignty and the legality of foreign military action in Nigeria.

Sokoto Bombing: Senator Ali Ndume Urges FG to Extend US Missile Strikes to Boko Haram, ISWAP Strongholds in North-East

Borno South Senator and former Senate Leader, Ali Ndume, has called on the Nigerian government to expand its ongoing joint military operations with the United States beyond Sokoto to the North-East region. Ndume made the call while reacting to the recent US airstrike in Tangaza LGA of Sokoto State, which targeted ISIS-linked militants. According to him, extending the collaboration to areas such as Lake Chad, the Sambisa Forest, and the Mandara Mountains would significantly weaken Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents. He also advocated deeper intelligence sharing, logistical support, and deployment of attack helicopters to assist Nigerian troops. Ndume commended President Bola Tinubu for increased defence spending in the 2026 budget, while urging transparency in its execution, and expressed condolences to victims of the recent mosque bombing in Maiduguri.

Nigerian Military Kills 438 Boko Haram, ISWAP Fighters in Seven Months, Seizes 300 Starlink Devices

The Nigerian military says its troops under Operation Hadin Kai killed 438 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters during counter-terrorism operations conducted between May and December 2025 in Borno State. The Theatre Commander, Maj. Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, also announced the recovery of 254 assorted weapons, seizure of 300 Starlink communication devices, and rescue of 366 civilians from insurgent-held areas. He added that 881 insurgents and their families surrendered within the period. While the military insists the operations show progress, residents continue to report attacks across the North-East, with independent verification of official claims remaining difficult due to restricted access to conflict zones.

Senator Ali Ndume Urges US-Nigeria Military Collaboration Against Boko Haram and ISWAP in North-East

Former Senate Leader Ali Ndume has called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to expand US-led military cooperation to Nigeria’s insurgency-hit North-East. Speaking after recent airstrikes against ISIS cells in Sokoto State, Ndume urged similar operations in Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds, including Lake Chad, Mandara Mountains, and Sambisa Forest. He emphasized the need for deeper collaboration through intelligence sharing, training, and deployment of attack helicopters, while stressing that budgeted defence funds must be transparently and effectively used. Ndume also condemned a recent mosque attack in Gamboru, highlighting that terrorists target communities indiscriminately, regardless of religion.

ADP Warns Against Foreign Military Strikes on Nigerian Soil, Calls for Sovereignty and Constitutional Oversight

The Action Democratic Party (ADP) has expressed concern over U.S. military strikes on ISWAP terrorists in Northwest Nigeria, warning that such actions could undermine Nigeria’s sovereignty and constitutional order. In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Dr. Sani Dawop, the party emphasized that fighting terrorism must not justify outsourcing the use of force or eroding national authority. ADP National Chairman, Engr. Yabagi Yusuf Sani, called for full transparency, legislative oversight, and adherence to constitutional provisions, stressing that Nigeria must address terrorism without weakening its governance or accountability.

US Conducts Surveillance Flights Over Nigeria After Trump’s Military Threat, Targets Boko Haram, ISWAP Amid Rising Insecurity

The United States has reportedly been carrying out intelligence and surveillance flights over large parts of Nigeria since late November 2025, following former President Donald Trump’s threat of possible military intervention over escalating violence and alleged attacks on Christian communities. Flight tracking data shows that contractor-operated aircraft linked to Mississippi-based Tenax Aerospace have been flying almost daily from Ghana into Nigerian airspace to gather intelligence. U.S. officials say the missions are focused on tracking militant groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), as well as monitoring a kidnapped American pilot. The operations signal renewed U.S.–Nigeria security cooperation amid worsening insecurity, although both governments have declined to publicly disclose details due to diplomatic sensitivities.

Troops of OPHK Foil Terrorist Logistics Movement, Neutralize 17 Insurgents in Coordinated Ambush Operation

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in collaboration with local vigilante elements, have successfully disrupted a terrorist logistics operation and neutralized multiple insurgents during a well-coordinated long-range ambush as part of current kinetic operations conducted in the early hours of 21 December 2025.

Acting on credible intelligence from own sources regarding the movement of logistics supplies by suspected JAS/ISWAP elements, troops of OPHK and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), supported by local hunters, deployed to a designated interception point between Sojiri and Kayamla villages on the night of 20 December 2025.

At approximately 2:24 a.m. on 21 December, suspected terrorists mounted on bicycles arrived at the location conveying logistics materials, confirming earlier intelligence reports. The troops, positioned in concealed and coordinated formations, engaged the terrorists decisively.

During the ensuing exchange, 17 suspected terrorists were neutralized, while others fled the scene with gunshot wounds. Recovered items included: Several bicycles, Assorted food items, Drugs and medical supplies,Detergents,
Clothing materials, Bicycle tyres,Torch lights and other sundry logistics items, Assorted Weapons of different calibres and ammunition.

Following the successful engagement, the ambush team safely withdrew to its base location at approximately 4:20 a.m. Exploitation and follow-up are on going to further assess the area and deny insurgents freedom of movement.

Troops remain in high morale, with fighting efficiency assessed as strong and unwavering.
This operation underscores the continued effectiveness of intelligence-driven, joint security efforts in degrading terrorist networks and disrupting their sustainment capabilities.

Troops of Sector 2 of the Nigerian Army in collaboration with Civilian Joint Task Force intercepted two pickup vans conveying assorted items suspected to be logistics supplies for the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the interception followed credible human intelligence indicating the movement of the items from Dapchi through the Magumeri general area.

According to the source, the troops intercepted the vehicles during the operation and took the drivers into custody for further interrogation.

Items recovered from the two vehicles included 31 spare tyres, 23 spare rims, two bicycles, 12 key starters, three alternators, two bags of flour, one mattress, five bags of charcoal, 34 tubers of yam, two blankets, nylon bags containing garri, adult and children clothing, one power bank, six mobile phones and a cash sum of N92,600.

The source added that the vehicles and recovered items were currently in custody, while investigations were ongoing to determine the extent of the suspects’ involvement and possible links to ISWAP logistics networks.

The troops, the source said, remained committed to disrupting the movement of supplies to terrorist groups and maintaining pressure on criminal elements across the area of responsibility.

Boko Haram Abducts Biu Vice Chairman, Councillors, and Passengers on Borno-Yobe Highway

Suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have abducted the newly elected Vice Chairman of Biu Local Government Area, Alhaji Saidu, along with two councillors and several passengers. The attack occurred on the notorious Kamuya–Buni Yadi road, a hotspot for insurgent activities, as the victims were traveling to Maiduguri following local government elections. Sources confirmed that passengers from other vehicles, including a Hisbah vehicle and a Jamatul Nasrul Islam vehicle, were also kidnapped. The incident underscores ongoing insecurity in Borno State and highlights the persistent threat posed by insurgent groups in the region.

Nigerian Troops Repel ISWAP Attack in Borno, Neutralize VBIEDs and Recover Arms

Nigerian military forces successfully thwarted an early-morning assault by suspected ISWAP fighters on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mairari in Borno State. Troops neutralized two vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices (VBIEDs) and recovered weapons and ammunition during a follow-up operation. Several terrorists were killed or injured, while the base remained secure with no military casualties reported. The incident underscores continued military efforts to counter insurgency in the North-East.

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