Nigerian Troops Eliminate Top Boko Haram Leader Abu Khalid in Sambisa Forest
In a significant counter-terrorism victory, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have neutralized a top Boko Haram/ISWAP leader, Abu Khalid, along with 10 other terrorists during a night offensive in the Sambisa forest of Borno State. The operation represents a major setback for terrorist activities in the region.
Military Statement Confirms Elimination
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, disclosed this development in an official statement released on Sunday, February 1, 2026. According to the military statement, Abu Khalid was identified as the Second-in-Command of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest, making his elimination particularly significant for regional security.
The statement revealed that Khalid was a key figure within the terrorist hierarchy, responsible for coordinating operations and logistics in the Sambisa axis. His removal from the battlefield is expected to disrupt terrorist command structures and operational capabilities in the area.
Rapid Success Following Previous Operation
This latest military success comes barely 24 hours after troops eliminated another notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, in Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State. The consecutive operations demonstrate the increasing tempo and effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
The statement provided additional operational details: "Barely 24 hours after troops eliminated the notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Julaibib, operating within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle, troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) on Operation DESERT SANITY, made contact with terrorists at the Komala general area of Konduga Local Government Area during night offensives at about 11:00 p.m."
Significant Weapons and Logistics Recovery
Following the successful engagement with terrorists, troops recovered substantial military equipment and supplies, including:
- Five AK-47 rifles with magazines
- Several bicycles used for transportation
- Assorted logistics and food items
- Huge quantities of medical consumables
Importantly, no casualties were recorded among Nigerian troops during the operation, indicating both tactical success and operational safety. Military authorities reported that troops' morale remains high as clearance operations continue across multiple terrorist strongholds.
Continued Operations Across Terrorist Hideouts
The Joint Task Force (North East) has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operational tempo against terrorist elements. Clearance operations are ongoing across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle, and other known hideouts of Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North East region.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their sacrifices and dedication in the fight against terrorism and other criminal activities in the North East region. Military leadership has urged troops to maintain the current operational momentum until all terrorist elements are neutralized and lasting peace with economic stability are restored to the region.
This operation represents a significant achievement in Nigeria's ongoing counter-terrorism efforts, particularly in the challenging terrain of Sambisa forest, which has long served as a major stronghold for terrorist groups operating in the region.
