The Nigerian military has announced that troops of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have eliminated 16 terrorists in Adamawa State. The operations, which took place between September 30 and October 1, 2026, involved a combination of ground ambushes, precision air strikes, and defensive counter-operations. The military disclosed that three soldiers lost their lives during the battles, while wounded personnel received medical treatment.
According to Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer of the Joint Task Force North-East, Operation Hadin Kai, the operations began in the Boima general area of Gombi Local Government Area. Troops conducted a coordinated ambush against a terrorist enclave, resulting in the neutralization of 16 terrorists. The military also recovered three AK-47 rifles, two pump-action rifles, one Dane gun, six AK-47 magazines, and a belt of pump-action cartridges.
The Air Component of OPHK conducted a precision strike on October 1, 2026, at approximately 5:30 a.m., targeting a group of 16 terrorists assembling with 15 motorcycles in Sector 4. The precision air interdiction resulted in a direct hit, with subsequent Battle Damage Assessment confirming the successful destruction of the target. A few surviving elements scattered in disarray.
In addition to the air strike, troops demonstrated their defensive capability when insurgents launched coordinated attacks on troop locations at 226 Battalion in Garkida and 232 Battalion in Garaha. The troops responded with overwhelming firepower, repelling the assailants and forcing them to withdraw. Regrettably, three soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice during the fierce battle.
The Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa, has reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to deepening military relations with the United States, particularly in counter-terrorism operations. This commitment comes as the Nigerian military continues to combat terrorism in the country. The Minister's statement highlights the importance of international cooperation in the fight against terrorism.
The Nigerian military's operations in Adamawa State are part of a broader effort to strengthen joint integration and improve operational effectiveness. The ongoing reorganisation of Headquarters Theatre Command aims to enhance the military's ability to respond to security challenges in the region. The military remains committed to protecting the country and its citizens from terrorist threats.
The successful operations in Adamawa State demonstrate the military's capability to conduct coordinated and effective operations against terrorist groups. The recovery of arms and ammunition has severely degraded the adversary's combat capability, denying them freedom of action within the sector. The military will continue to work to prevent future attacks and maintain stability in the region.
Key points
- Nigerian troops eliminate 16 terrorists in Adamawa State during coordinated operations.
- Military recovers arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles and pump-action rifles.
- Nigeria reaffirms commitment to deepening military relations with the US in counter-terrorism operations.
