Troops of the North East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have neutralised at least 17 Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists during a series of clearance operations across Borno and Adamawa States.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Captain Reuben Kovangiya, who said the operations were carried out between July 23 and August 2, 2025, targeting terrorist hideouts in Bama, Konduga, Gwoza, Magumeri, and Biu local government areas of Borno, and Michika LGA in Adamawa State.
According to the statement, the offensive was supported by close air support from the Air Component of OPHK and involved collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
“Troops conducted fighting patrols, ambushes, clearance missions, and logistics denial campaigns that led to the elimination of several terrorists, recovery of weapons, and seizure of terrorist logistics,” said Kovangiya.
Explosives Neutralised, Weapons Recovered
During the operations, troops discovered and safely neutralised over 14 improvised explosive devices (IEDs) planted by insurgents in various locations.
In separate engagements around Bula Daburu, Alau Dam, Bitta, Kawuri, Algambari, Ajiri, and Bulabulin, troops:
- Killed over 17 insurgents
- Recovered several AK-47 rifles, a PKT machine gun, multiple magazines, and 7.62mm ammunition
- Seized 2,300 litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and 1,000 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
- Confiscated two generators, a tricycle, bags of rice, solar panels, and several motorcycles
“The IEDs were intended to target both civilians and military personnel but were safely dismantled by our experts,” Kovangiya added.
Over 900 IDPs Return Home
As part of its stabilisation efforts, OPHK troops also facilitated the safe return of 987 internally displaced persons (IDPs) to their ancestral community of Mandaragrau in Biu LGA.
This move, the army spokesperson said, aligns with the Borno State Government’s resettlement agenda aimed at restoring displaced residents and reviving economic activity in the region.
Cross-Border Operations with Niger
Kovangiya also revealed that OPHK troops conducted joint cross-border operations with Nigerien forces around the Diffa–Duji–Damasak corridor, enhancing regional security cooperation and stability.
“These sustained operations reflect the high command’s directive to restore peace, dismantle terrorist networks, and create a safe environment for development in the North East,” he said.
Operation Hadin Kai remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s military campaign against insurgency in the region, with continued emphasis on joint efforts, civilian safety, and long-term resettlement.
