Troops Eliminate Top Boko Haram/ISWAP Commander Abu Khalid In Sambisa Forest

Nigerian troops under the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have killed a senior Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Abu Khalid, during a night offensive in Sambisa Forest, Borno State.

Military authorities confirmed that Khalid served as the group’s second-in-command within the Sambisa axis. He was neutralised alongside 10 other fighters during the coordinated operation.

The Theatre Command’s Media Information Officer, Lieutenant-Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday, noting that the success came less than 24 hours after troops eliminated another notorious commander, Julaibib, operating around the Gujba area of the Timbuktu Triangle.

According to Uba, soldiers from Sector 1, working closely with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) under Operation Desert Sanity, engaged the terrorists at the Komala general area in Konduga Local Government Area at about 11 p.m., leading to the deaths of the insurgents.

The military said the continued offensives are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist strongholds and restore security across the North-East.

#Nigeria #Borno #SambisaForest #CounterTerrorism

Airstrikes Kill Over 40 Terrorists In Borno — NAF

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says more than 40 terrorists were killed in coordinated airstrikes carried out in Azir and Musarram areas of Borno State, successfully foiling planned attacks on nearby civilian communities.

In a statement on Sunday, NAF Spokesman, Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that the precision strikes were conducted on January 15 and 16 by NAF aircraft operating under the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, following credible intelligence on terrorist movements and imminent threats.

Ejodame added that further aerial scans revealed terrorist elements attempting to regroup under nearby tree cover, prompting successive precision strikes that neutralised several of them.

#NAF #BornoState #OperationHadinKai #SecurityUpdate

Troops Foil Coordinated Terrorist Attacks, Neutralise Insurgents in Borno and Adamawa

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have foiled coordinated terrorist attacks and neutralised scores of insurgents in Borno and Adamawa states.

In Borno State, the terrorists launched a large-scale, multi-directional assault on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Azir on Friday. However, the attack was successfully repelled by troops following intense engagements.

Security sources said operations across the two states led to significant losses on the side of the insurgents, with weapons and ammunition recovered during the encounters.#OperationHadinKai #BornoState #AdamawaState #SecurityUpdate

Wahala Don dey calm Oo! Troops Smash Terrorist Camps, 11 Fighters Surrender In Borno

Wahala don truly happen for Boko Haram and ISWAP in Borno State as troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) intensify their offensive across the Azir–Wajiroko axis. In a statement by the Joint Task Force (North East), the military said 11 terrorist fighters surrendered with their AK-47 rifles and ammunition following sustained operations. On January 9, 2026, troops carried out clearance missions in the Bulaagalda cluster, destroying several terrorist camps in Dagumba, Bonne, Yaganari, Gosuri and Umchile. Life-support structures and logistics networks were dismantled, while flags, weapons and magazines were recovered. Similar operations in Yale and Bula Gaida forced more terrorists to flee, leading to further seizures of arms, ammunition and a general-purpose machine gun. Acting on intelligence, troops also engaged insurgents between Sojiri and Kayamla, neutralising eight terrorists and arresting two suspected collaborators in Gubio LGA for supplying logistics.

Are Nigeria’s Airstrikes Finally Turning the Tide? Nigerian Air Force Bombs Terrorist Hideouts in Borno’s Timbuktu Triangle Under Operation Hadin Kai

Is Nigeria’s intensified air campaign beginning to weaken terrorist strongholds in the North-East? The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed a major air interdiction operation targeting terrorist locations at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle of Borno State, carried out under the joint task force Operation Hadin Kai.

According to a statement by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the mission followed multi-source intelligence that confirmed active terrorist presence, fortified structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area. Based on this intelligence, NAF air assets were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strikes on identified targets.

The Air Force said the operation was carefully designed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary, and shape the battlespace for advancing ground forces, while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and protecting non-combatants. Targeted structures believed to be used by terrorist elements were destroyed, while a follow-up strike neutralised armed fighters observed converging on the location.

Speaking on the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the operation as evidence of the Air Force’s determination to deliver precise and decisive airpower in support of ground troops. He stated that NAF would continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, hideouts, and logistics wherever they attempt to regroup.

“Our operations are intelligence-led and carefully planned to achieve maximum impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians,” Aneke said, reaffirming that pressure will be sustained until terrorist networks are completely dismantled. Ground troops who later advanced into the area reportedly confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes, validating the success of the joint air-land operation.

The Borno operation follows a similar strike in December 2025, when NAF targeted bandit camps in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State under Operation Fansan Yamma, destroying positions linked to a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Dogo Sule. Those strikes were also based on what NAF described as credible, multi-source intelligence.

As Nigeria continues to battle insurgency and banditry across multiple regions, the latest operation raises key questions: Are precision airstrikes beginning to weaken terrorist networks? Can sustained intelligence-driven operations finally deny extremists safe havens? And will joint air-ground campaigns restore security to communities long terrorised by violence?

Nigerian Soldiers Accuse Commander of Withholding Operation Allowances Amid Boko Haram Fight

Nigerian soldiers deployed in the North-East to fight Boko Haram under Operation Hadin Kai have accused their commander of withholding their operation allowances, SaharaReporters has learned. The affected troops claim that thousands of soldiers, along with personnel from the Mobile Police and NSCDC, have been stranded in the field, facing declining morale as they continue counter-insurgency operations without proper support.

The soldiers allege that their allowances, meant to sustain them while deployed, are irregularly paid. Each soldier is entitled to N1,500 per day, amounting to N46,500 per month, but payments have reportedly been skipped since Major General Abubakar took over as Theatre Commander.

Operation Hadin Kai spans multiple sectors in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states, where troops face constant threats from insurgents. Soldiers argue that even though the allowance is modest, it is essential for their welfare in the field. Previous complaints to army authorities have reportedly been met with threats rather than solutions.

The soldiers have appealed for urgent intervention, warning that continued non-payment could further demoralize troops risking their lives daily. Efforts to get a comment from the Nigerian Army were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.

#NigeriaNews #BokoHaram #MilitaryCrisis”

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.

#BornoState #CJTF #BokoHaram #ISWAP #NigeriaNews #GwozaAttack #SecurityUpdate #TerrorismInNigeria #NorthernNigeria

Nigerian Military Dismantles Suspected Suicide Bombing Network in Adamawa, Arrests Eight Suspects, Seizes Explosives and Terrorist Logistics

The Nigerian military has announced the dismantling of a suspected suicide bombing network in Adamawa State, with the arrest of eight individuals linked to the recent Gamboru Market Mosque attack, according to Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI.

The arrests were made following intelligence-led cordon-and-search operations in the Yan Lemo area of Mubi South LGA. Among the eight suspects, two were identified as key facilitators who supplied materials for the Improvised Explosive Device (IED) used in the attack. Searches of their residences yielded cash, mobile phones, ID documents, ATM cards, jewellery, and other personal items, all undergoing forensic analysis.

In a related operation on January 4, troops intercepted 45 jerrycans of Premium Motor Spirit (about 1,125 litres) in Mayo Nguli, Maiha LGA, suspected to be intended for terrorist activities. The suppliers escaped, and the petroleum products were secured.

All suspects remain in military custody for detailed interrogation to gather further intelligence before being handed over for ongoing investigations. The military emphasized that these operations are part of a broader effort to disrupt terrorist networks, dismantle supply chains, and prevent future attacks.

The military also urged the public to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies to strengthen security in the North East.

TROOPS OF OPHK NEUTRALIZE TERRORISTS AND RESCUE HOSTAGES IN KONDUGA LGA BORNO STATE

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have recorded another significant success following a well-coordinated operation against terrorist elements around Kondunga Local Government Area of Borno State, which also led to the rescue of kidnapped civilians.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba says on the early hours of 4th January 2026, troops in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), engaged terrorists at a known crossing point along the Sojiri axis. The operation resulted in the neutralization of 5 terrorists without any casualty to own troops.

The troops successfully rescued 3 hostages abducted by the terrorists and recovered AK-47 Rifles during the operation.

This operation underscores the commitment of OPHK to both offensive action against terrorist elements and the protection of civilians, while highlighting the value of cooperation with local security partners. Troops morale remains high, and security forces continue to maintain dominance across the Theatre despite the dynamic security environment.

Troops Recover Large Cache of 12.7mm Ammunition War Heads as Sustained Security Operations Continue

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have uncovered a significant cache of high-calibre ammunition in the Bulumkutu Railway general area in Maiduguri.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba says the recovery followed a sustained presence and follow-up actions after a recent cordon-and-search operation, conducted on the basis of actionable intelligence with multiple suicide bombers either neutralised or captured in the last week

At about 3:00 p.m. on 2 January 2026, troops received a distress call reporting the discovery of suspicious metallic objects inside a drainage channel in the Bulumkutu Railway area, upon their response a 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, some live 12.7mm round, as well as power banks concealed inside the drainage were recovered.

No casualties or unusual incidents were recorded during the operation. The general security situation remains calm and vigilance is being maintained in view of the unpredictable nature of the threat environment.

HQ OPHK once again urges members of the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious items or movements to security agencies, as collective responsibility remains key to sustaining peace and security in the North East.

Nigerian Military Arrests Shariff Umar, Alleged Mastermind of North-East Suicide Bombings Including Deadly Maiduguri Mosque Attack

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have arrested Shariff Umar, also known as Yusuf, identified as the key coordinator of a suicide bombing network responsible for multiple attacks and attempted attacks across Nigeria’s North-East region, including the Maiduguri mosque bombing. The arrest followed intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025.

According to a military statement, 14 suspects linked to suicide bombing activities were apprehended during the operation. Investigations revealed that Umar played a central role in recruiting, preparing, and deploying suicide bombers, as well as coordinating logistics and supplying improvised explosive device (IED) components. A detained suspect, Ibrahim Muhammad, reportedly identified Umar as the ringleader of the terror cell.

The military said Umar directly coordinated the December 24, 2025, suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque, where the attacker detonated a suicide vest and died. He was also linked to a foiled suicide bombing attempt in Damaturu, having allegedly handed over IED materials to the intended bomber in Maiduguri. Further investigations implicated Umar’s wife, Yagana Modu, while his stepdaughter confirmed seeing the suspected bomber at their residence prior to the attack.

The Nigerian Army said all suspects remain in custody and are undergoing intensive interrogation to dismantle the network, uncover additional collaborators, and recover remaining explosives. The military emphasised the importance of community cooperation, noting that terrorist networks often survive by hiding within civilian populations, and urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to security agencies.

Nigerian Military's OPHK Identifies Shariff Umar as Key Suspected Coordinator of Suicide Bombing Network in the North East, Calls for Public Cooperation

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) has achieved a significant breakthrough in its ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by identifying Shariff Umar as the primary coordinator behind suicide bombing operations linked to recent attacks and attempted strikes in the North East region.

According to a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Sani, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, this development stemmed from intelligence-driven cordon-and-search operations carried out in the Kalmari area of Maiduguri on December 31, 2025. During these operations, 14 individuals suspected of involvement in suicide bombing activities were apprehended.

In the course of the investigation, a detained suspected suicide bomber, Ibrahim Muhammad, clearly identified Shariff Umar (also known as "Yusuf") as the mastermind and leader of the terrorist network.

Further probes uncovered that Shariff Umar orchestrated the suicide bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque on December 24, 2025, where his associate, Adamu (now deceased), detonated an explosive vest. He was also pinpointed as the organizer of a thwarted suicide bombing plot in Damaturu, having personally delivered IED components to the bomber in Maiduguri.

Additional connections in the network were uncovered, including the role of Shariff Umar's wife, Yagana Modu, and corroboration from his step daughter, Amina, who confessed to having seen the suspected bomber at their home previously.

These revelations have bolstered the investigation and highlighted the use of household and community-based hiding tactics by terrorist enablers.

The public is therefore encouraged to stay alert and promptly report any suspicious individuals, activities, or movements to security forces.

Building trust and collaboration between the military and local communities is crucial for eradicating terrorism and achieving enduring peace in the region.

TROOPS OF OPHK NEUTRALISE TERRORIST SUICIDE BOMBERS IN BORNO STATE

Troops of OPHK have successfully neutralised three terrorist suicide bombers following a deliberate, intelligence-driven operation conducted along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The operation, executed through covert intelligence efforts by troops in collaboration with local volunteer forces, led to the tracking and neutralisation of the suicide bombers before they could carry out planned attacks on innocent civilians. During the encounter, suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) materials in the possession of the terrorists were recovered and safely secured.

Troops also inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorist escorts accompanying the suicide bombers. The surviving elements fled into the Mandara Mountains under pressure from sustained troop action. In the course of exploitation, troops recovered four AK-47 rifles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, while two motorcycles used by the terrorists were destroyed.

Preliminary intelligence assessments indicate that the neutralised suicide bombers were dispatched from the Mandara Mountains by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram terrorists. Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have intensified efforts to detect, track, and neutralise suicide bombers and other terrorist elements operating from this enclave, leveraging human intelligence, communication intercepts, and other intelligence-gathering capabilities.

The Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI, has continued to strengthen collaboration with other security agencies as well as community-based volunteer forces across Borno and Yobe States to forestall terrorist attacks on soft targets and protect innocent citizens. In addition, public enlightenment campaigns have been intensified to encourage vigilance and prompt reporting of suspicious movements or persons within communities.

Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute and committed to sustaining offensive pressure on terrorist elements, degrading their operational capabilities, and ensuring the safety and security of the populace within the theatre of operations.

Nigerian Army Neutralizes Three Suspected Suicide Bombers in Borno, Recovers Explosives and Suicide Vests

Troops of the Nigerian Army, under Operation Hadin Kai, killed three suspected suicide bombers during an intelligence-led operation along the Guduf–Pulka axis in Gwoza LGA, Borno State. The operation, conducted in collaboration with local volunteer forces, allowed the army to intercept the suspects before planned attacks on civilians.

Security sources said suicide vests and other improvised explosive device (IED) components were recovered and secured. The army also inflicted heavy casualties on terrorist escorts, forcing survivors to flee into the Mandara Mountains, abandoning four AK-47 rifles and two motorcycles, which were destroyed.

Preliminary intelligence indicated that the neutralised suspects were dispatched by the Ali Ngulde-led Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram. The operation is part of enhanced efforts by Operation Hadin Kai to track and neutralise terrorist elements, with strengthened collaboration with community-based volunteer groups and public awareness campaigns to report suspicious activities.

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.

“I Was Paid ₦100,000 to Bomb Worshippers in Maiduguri” — Arrested Boko Haram Member Confesses to Gamboru Market Mosque Attack

An arrested Boko Haram member, Ibrahim Mohammed, has confessed to being paid up to ₦100,000 to carry out suicide bombing attacks on worshippers in Maiduguri. He admitted involvement in the December 24 attack at Gamboru Market Mosque, which killed five people and injured 32 others. According to his confession, the attack was planned by Boko Haram commanders operating between Adamawa State and the Mandara Mountains, with explosives planted inside the mosque and detonated during Maghrib prayers. Mohammed revealed that suicide bombings are paid missions within the terror group and that multiple coordinated attacks were planned across the North-East. He was arrested in Damaturu, Yobe State, by local hunters working with Operation Hadin Kai, after his suspicious behaviour raised alarm.

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.

Nigerian Army Arrests Two Suspected Suicide Bombers Linked to Deadly Borno Mosque Attack, Disrupts Boko Haram Logistics Network

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have reportedly arrested two suspected suicide bombers linked to the December 24, 2025, bombing at the Gamboru Market Mosque in Maiduguri, Borno State. One suspect was intercepted at the Banki Central Mosque with primed IED materials during intelligence-led patrols, while another was arrested in Damaturu, Yobe State, and repatriated to Maiduguri for interrogation. Investigations revealed that the attack was part of coordinated plans by Boko Haram factions, including JAS, Ansaru, and JNIM, to carry out multiple suicide and IED attacks across the North-East. The mosque bombing killed five worshippers and injured 32 others. Following the attack, military authorities intensified hunter-killer and pre-emptive operations, leading to further arrests, recovery of explosives, and the interception of urea fertilizer used for IED production. The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and strengthening security around places of worship and markets in the region.

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.

Boko Haram Responsible For Maiduguri Mosque Bomb Blast, Nigerian Army Confirms

The Nigerian Army has confirmed that Boko Haram insurgents were responsible for the deadly bomb explosion at the Gamboru Juma’at Mosque in Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. The attack occurred on Wednesday during Maghrib prayers when a suspected suicide bomber detonated an improvised explosive device inside the mosque, causing widespread casualties and panic among worshippers.

According to the headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai, investigations revealed that the assault was carried out by Boko Haram elements targeting civilians during a religious gathering. Five worshippers were confirmed dead, while at least 35 others sustained injuries of varying degrees. The Theatre Command spokesman, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, disclosed that 32 civilians were injured in the blast, with two later dying at the hospital and two others remaining in critical condition.

Following the explosion, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal unit, other security agencies, the Borno State Government and the National Emergency Management Agency, swiftly cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm. Victims were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for urgent medical treatment.

The Nigerian Army reassured residents of Maiduguri and its environs of their safety, especially during the festive season, noting that security surveillance and operations have been intensified across the city and surrounding areas. The military reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and preventing further attacks in the North-East, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative with security agencies as counterterrorism efforts continue.