Nigerian soldiers repel terrorist attacks in Borno, neutralise lSWAP fighters

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI under the Joint Task Force (North East) have foiled coordinated attacks by terrorists in parts of Borno State, recording significant gains against insurgents across several locations.

The military said the attacks, which occurred on the night of February 20, 2026, targeted Limankara and Kukawa. According to the statement, the failed operations by the terrorists show the increasing pressure on their camps, supply routes, and leadership structure. Troops maintained sustained offensives, which forced the attackers to retreat with heavy losses.

In a separate operation, troops of Sector 2 under Operation DESERT SANITY V carried out a targeted mission around Lamusheri Village in Gujba Local Government Area in the early hours of February 22. The area was identified as a key base for launching attacks and storing logistics.

The troops, working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, engaged the terrorists despite coming under fire. They outmanoeuvred the insurgents and blocked their escape routes. During the operation, 15 terrorists were killed, while several others fled with gunshot wounds. Soldiers destroyed key structures used by the group and set ablaze five tricycles and two vehicles used for operations. They also recovered arms, ammunition, bandoliers, and other items.

On the same night, terrorists attempted to infiltrate the Forward Operating Base in Limankara. Troops responded swiftly and engaged them in a fierce exchange. Reinforcements and air support helped repel the attackers, who fled through the burial ground axis. No casualties or equipment losses were recorded on the side of the troops, while intelligence reports indicated losses among the terrorists.

Also, in Kukawa, terrorists launched a coordinated attack using gun trucks, motorcycles, and fighters on foot from the Alagarno and Jemmu directions. Troops mounted strong resistance and engaged them in a prolonged battle that lasted into the early hours of February 21.

The attackers were eventually forced to withdraw after facing superior firepower and coordinated ground and air operations. Air strikes destroyed one gun truck, killing four fighters. Surveillance later tracked fleeing terrorists on motorcycles, leading to another strike that destroyed five motorcycles and killed 10 more fighters.

After the operation, troops recovered 13 AK-47 rifles, 16 loaded magazines, and three handheld radios used by the insurgents. They also found stretchers, shallow graves, and blood trails left behind.

However, the military confirmed that one soldier lost his life during the encounter, while some equipment was damaged by rocket fire. Injured personnel were evacuated by Nigerian Army helicopters and are reported to be in stable condition.

The military authorities stated that the coordinated operations have further weakened the terrorists and strengthened operational control in the region. The High Command commended the troops for their performance and urged them to maintain the momentum.