Troops of Operation Hadin Kai successfully neutralised 16 terrorists affiliated with the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram during a fierce encounter in the Damboa Local Government Area of Borno state on Friday.
The Nigerian Army disclosed the development via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle, providing details of the early morning operation that showcased the military’s continued resolve to combat insurgency in the volatile North East region.
According to the Army’s statement, the terrorists were detected around 1 a.m. near a Brigade location, prompting an immediate and sustained indirect fire response from ground forces. The insurgents’ primary objective was to launch a significant attack against the military installation, which triggered a rapid escalation of the clash.
In reaction to the escalating threat, air support was swiftly deployed to reinforce the ground troops, bringing a combined offensive that overwhelmed the terrorists after approximately two hours of intense combat. The military’s coordinated efforts forced the insurgents into disarray, compelling them to retreat from the area.
“The main thrust of the attack targeted the Brigade, prompting the swift deployment of air support to reinforce ground troops,” the Army stated. “The combined firepower from both ground and air forces overwhelmed the insurgents after about two hours of intense engagement, forcing them to retreat in disarray.”
The Army confirmed that during the confrontation, one of the terrorists’ ammunition storage areas was struck but emphasized that the situation was promptly controlled with no further escalation or casualties on the military side.
In total, 16 terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, with the Army indicating that pursuit operations remain ongoing to track down any fleeing elements. This persistent offensive is part of the Nigerian military’s broader campaign under Operation Hadin Kai, which seeks to dismantle insurgent networks and restore stability across the North East.
The operation comes amid sustained efforts by the Nigerian security forces to crush ISWAP and Boko Haram factions that have long terrorised communities in Borno and neighbouring states. The insurgency has resulted in widespread displacement, loss of lives, and disruption of social and economic activities in the region.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to continue aggressive operations against all terrorist elements operating in the North East, underlining the strategic importance of restoring lasting peace to the area.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in sustaining offensive operations against all terrorist elements in the North East and restoring lasting peace to the region,” the statement said.
The success of this recent operation is expected to bolster morale among troops and local communities alike, demonstrating the increasing effectiveness of coordinated ground and air military strategies against insurgents.
Security experts have praised the Army’s proactive posture, noting that such decisive actions contribute significantly to weakening terrorist capabilities and reducing attacks on civilians.
As the military continues to pursue fleeing terrorists, local residents and displaced persons in the area hope that the ongoing efforts will lead to improved security and a return to normalcy after years of conflict.
The Nigerian government and military have repeatedly called for support from local communities and stakeholders in intelligence gathering and cooperation to accelerate the defeat of insurgent groups.
This latest encounter in Damboa serves as a reminder of the challenges that remain but also highlights the progress being made in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria’s North East.
