In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Nigerian Army troops working under Operation Hadin Kai, alongside local vigilantes from the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have eliminated at least 21 fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The intense firefight occurred in the early hours of Sunday, December 21, 2025, near Sojiri and Kayamla villages along the critical Damboa–Maiduguri Road in Borno State.
Intelligence-Led Operation Thwarts Planned Attack
The successful military engagement was initiated based on credible intelligence reports. Security sources indicated that a large gathering of terrorists had been observed along the axis, with suspicions pointing towards preparations for a coordinated attack on nearby communities or security formations. Acting swiftly on this information, troops were mobilised to the identified area.
Contact was first established with the terrorist group at approximately noon on Saturday. The security forces observed the militants, estimated to be around 100 strong, advancing in a tactical formation. Upon sighting the troops, a decisive engagement commenced immediately.
Decisive Engagement and Superior Firepower
The encounter escalated into a fierce gun battle. During the heat of the exchange, a second group of terrorists attempted to flank the troops and launch a surprise assault from the rear. However, the soldiers and CJTF members held their ground firmly. Utilizing superior firepower and tactical discipline, they repelled the attack and maintained dominance over the battlefield.
Following the confrontation, a preliminary assessment of the scene confirmed no fewer than 17 terrorist corpses. Military sources noted that the actual casualty figure is likely higher, as several trails of blood were discovered leading into the surrounding bushes, suggesting that many wounded militants fled the scene.
Exploitation and Continued Pressure
An exploitation and clearance operation is currently ongoing in the general area. The objectives are to uncover additional bodies, recover vital intelligence materials, and flush out any fleeing terrorist elements. The troops have already recovered a cache of arms, ammunition, and other logistical supplies from the defeated faction.
Troops continue to maintain aggressive patrols and pressure along the strategic Damboa-Maiduguri route to deny the terrorists freedom of movement and disrupt their plans. After stabilising the situation, a tactical withdrawal was conducted to allow the forces to regroup and address operational needs, including the emotional impact of combat. Military authorities confirmed that troop morale remains high despite the challenges.
Commitment to Securing the North-East
The Nigerian military has reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of Operation Hadin Kai to sustain offensive actions against all terrorist elements in the North-East. The core objective remains the protection of key population centres like Maiduguri and Damboa, and the prevention of any attacks that threaten the safety and livelihoods of communities in the region. This latest operation underscores the continued collaboration between the armed forces and local security stakeholders in the fight against insurgency.
