The Nigerian Army has announced that its troops, under Operation Hadin Kai, successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters in Kukawa, Borno State. The attack, which occurred on October 7, 2026, was launched against troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion from four directions. Despite the strong resistance, the Army managed to overwhelm the attackers with the support of the Air Component.
According to Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, the preliminary assessment indicates that over 25 terrorists were neutralized, with 14 bodies recovered so far. The military also recovered six AK-47 rifles and other ammunition during a subsequent search of the area. The operation is ongoing to recover additional weapons, track fleeing fighters, and prevent them from regrouping.
The Army confirmed that some soldiers lost their lives during the fighting but did not disclose the exact number. The military expressed condolences to the families of the soldiers, describing their deaths as a sacrifice in the defence of the country. The statement emphasized that their courage, sacrifice, and devotion to duty would remain an enduring testament to their service to the nation.
The outcome of the fighting demonstrated the combat readiness of troops operating in the North-East and the effectiveness of coordination between ground forces and air support. The Army said this success showcases the enhanced capabilities of its troops in tackling insurgency in the region. The military remains committed to maintaining pressure on ISWAP and other armed groups through sustained patrols, intelligence-led operations, and coordinated offensives with other security agencies.
The Nigerian Army's Operation Hadin Kai has been instrumental in the fight against insurgency in the North-East. The operation focuses on securing the region, protecting civilians, and dismantling terrorist networks. The recent success in Kukawa is a testament to the operation's effectiveness and the bravery of the troops involved.
The military's efforts to combat insurgency in the North-East have been ongoing, with a focus on intelligence-led operations and coordination with other security agencies. The Army's commitment to protecting communities and preventing terrorist groups from regrouping remains unwavering. The recent battle against ISWAP fighters demonstrates the military's determination to ensure peace and stability in the region.
The Nigerian Army's fight against ISWAP and other terrorist groups will continue, with a focus on dismantling their networks and preventing further attacks. The military's enhanced capabilities and coordination with air support have been crucial in achieving successes in the region. The Army's efforts will continue to be supported by the Air Component, ensuring that terrorist groups are brought to justice.
Key points
- Over 25 ISWAP fighters were killed in the attack.
- The Nigerian Army recovered six AK-47 rifles and other ammunition during the operation.
- The military's efforts to combat insurgency in the North-East will continue, with a focus on intelligence-led operations and coordination with other security agencies.
