Nigerian Troops Achieve Major Success Against Terrorists in North-East Operations
In a significant development for national security, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have eliminated dozens of terrorists and successfully foiled a complex drone-assisted attack during intensified operations in the North-East region of Nigeria. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, confirmed these breakthroughs, highlighting the military's unwavering commitment to restoring stability and degrading terrorist capabilities across affected areas.
Key Victories in Borno and Beyond
According to Maj.-Gen. Onoja, who provided updates on military operations from March 13 to March 19, 2026, troops repelled a major terrorist assault in Mallam Fatori, located in the Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State. This engagement resulted in the deaths of numerous fighters, including senior commanders. Follow-up exploitation operations led to the recovery of 74 terrorist bodies and a substantial cache of arms, which included 38 AK-47 rifles, three PKT machine guns, and an RPG tube.
In addition to this decisive action, troops thwarted multiple infiltration attempts across Bama, Gujba, and Kaga local government areas. Coordinated air and ground operations also repelled attacks in Baga, Damboa, Buratai, and Njimtilo, effectively degrading the capabilities of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The military's efforts extended to arresting key logistics suppliers and informants, disrupting the operational networks of terrorist groups.
Expanded Operations Across Multiple States
The success was not limited to Borno State. Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma recorded major breakthroughs in Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and Kebbi states, where they rescued kidnapped victims and dismantled criminal networks. In Taraba State, suspected gunrunners were intercepted, leading to the recovery of ammunition, cash, and motorcycles. Maj.-Gen. Onoja reaffirmed the military's dedication to sustaining pressure on terrorists and restoring peace in the region.
Context of Ongoing Security Challenges
This victory comes against a backdrop of persistent security threats. Recent reports indicate that Boko Haram fighters overran a military base in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State, killing the commanding officer and other personnel. The attackers struck around midnight, setting military vehicles ablaze and carting away arms and ammunition. This incident occurred weeks after troops had repelled a similar assault on the same base, underscoring the volatile nature of the conflict.
Furthermore, multiple explosions rocked Maiduguri, Borno State, on Monday, March 16, 2026, shocking residents after iftar. Suspected Boko Haram terrorists are believed to have planted Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in key locations, including the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital and the Monday Market. These events highlight the ongoing challenges faced by security forces and civilians in the region.
The military's recent successes demonstrate a robust response to these threats, with coordinated efforts across air and ground operations yielding tangible results. As Nigeria continues to grapple with terrorism and insurgency, such victories are crucial for bolstering public confidence and advancing the goal of lasting stability in the North-East and beyond.
