By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

Troops from Operation Hadin Kai have officially identified a neutralized Boko Haram insurgent as a high-level specialist in Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). 

The individual was a primary trainer for terrorist cells operating within the North-East theater of operations.

The fighter, killed during a recent strategic ambush along a border axis, has been identified as Habba Umar, notoriously known by the alias “Bomma.” His elimination marks a significant blow to the technical capabilities of the insurgent groups in the region.

Umar was reportedly a specialist in the fabrication of both standard IEDs and Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). Intelligence suggests he maintained operational links with both Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Sources indicate that the suspect operated primarily within an enclave around Arena Wuje. He is alleged to have played a central role in coordinating explosive attacks and instructing other members of the group on bomb-making techniques.

Preliminary investigations link Umar to previous IED incidents along the Marte–Dikwa axis and parts of the Lake Chad Basin. Following the ambush, troops recovered electronic devices from the scene, which are currently undergoing intelligence exploitation to aid further counter-terrorism efforts.

Military authorities confirmed that operations in the general area remain ongoing. Security forces are sustaining intense pressure on terrorist elements and their support networks to ensure continued stability across the North-East.