Troops Neutralise 438 Terrorists in North-East Within Seven Months
Troops of the Joint Task Force North East under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have recorded significant operational successes, neutralising 438 Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists over the past seven months.
The Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, disclosed this in Maiduguri during the 2025 Christmas Luncheon organised for troops of the operation. He said the achievements underscored the sustained momentum of ongoing counterterrorism efforts across the North-East.
According to Abubakar, the troops also recovered 254 assorted weapons, dismantled terrorist logistics networks, and seized about 300 Starlink communication devices, which had been used by insurgents to coordinate attacks and evade security forces.
He added that 366 civilians were rescued from terrorist enclaves during clearance operations, while 881 terrorists and their family members surrendered, signalling increasing pressure on insurgent groups and growing confidence in the military’s non-kinetic engagement strategies.
The Theatre Commander attributed the successes to the resilience and professionalism of troops, effective inter-agency collaboration, improved intelligence sharing, and timely operational support from the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede.
“These gains are a reflection of the unwavering commitment of our troops and the synergy among security agencies. The support from the Army Headquarters has been instrumental in sustaining the tempo of operations,” Abubakar said.
He reassured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would maintain sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements until lasting peace and stability are restored in the North-East.
The Christmas luncheon, attended by senior military officers and troops from various formations, was aimed at boosting morale and appreciating personnel for their sacrifices in the line of duty.
Military authorities say operations under Operation Hadin Kai will continue to focus on degrading terrorist capabilities, protecting civilian populations, and creating conditions for the safe return of displaced persons across the region.
