Boko Haram

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigeria’s military has suffered another devastating loss after a senior army officer was killed in a coordinated attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

Colonel I.A. Mohammed, Commander of the 242 Battalion, died when his convoy was ambushed by fighters in the Moguno area, near the town of Boron. According to military sources, the troops were reinforcing a military camp under attack when their formation was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), followed by heavy gunfire from insurgents hidden along the route.

Several other soldiers also lost their lives in the attack. Casualty figures have not been officially released, but a military source confirmed that the death toll includes the commanding officer and other ranks.

Colonel Mohammed’s death marks the fifth loss of a top-ranking military officer in Nigeria in 2026 alone — all within the first four months of the year. The repeated targeting of senior commanders has raised urgent questions about operational security and the resilience of the military’s command structure in the northeast counterinsurgency campaign.

As of press time, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement, but an internal security briefing described the incident as a “well-planned ambush with high-grade explosives.”

The insurgency in Borno, which has persisted for over a decade, continues to exact a heavy toll on both combatants and civilians, despite repeated government claims that Boko Haram has been largely defeated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An attack by Boko Haram insurgents on Nigerian troops in Monguno, Borno State, involved the use of armed drones, a military source has revealed.

The assault targeted soldiers under Sector 3 of Operation Hadin Kai. It led to the death of several personnel, including Colonel I.A. Mohammed. The incident followed an earlier report that troops were ambushed by fighters linked to the Islamic State-backed faction of Boko Haram.

The soldiers had set out on a patrol mission to clear insurgents from the area after receiving intelligence reports. According to a serving Major, the attackers struck around 2 a.m. on Monday and deployed drones against the advancing convoy.

The officer explained that the drones used in the operation are similar to those seen in conflict zones such as Israel and Ukraine.

“The 242 Battalion Commander and soldiers were ambushed around 2 a.m. this morning by terrorists in Monguno Sector 3. The Commander was with some soldiers, and we don’t know the number of casualties yet,” the source said.

“They were going for reinforcement; it was drones that they used on them. The terrorists sent bombs with drones; those things shelled them. It’s very unfortunate.

“I could remember the Army explaining last year how these terrorists have been deploying weaponised drones, similar to those used in Israel and Ukraine. These drones are hard to detect with conventional radar.”

Earlier accounts had suggested that the senior officer died after an Improvised Explosive Device detonated along the route. Sources said the attack began on Sunday night and focused on a Forward Operating Base under the 242 Battalion in Monguno.

“One of our senior commanders, Colonel I.A. Muhammad, was killed last night when Boko Haram attacked Monguno. They also killed some soldiers during the attack,” a soldier on the front lines said.

Monguno serves as a key military location in the North-East. It hosts several units under the supervision of senior commanders. During the incident, insurgents reportedly concentrated their firepower on a smaller but vital position, which prompted a call for reinforcement.

“The Colonel got information that troops at the FOB were under heavy attack. As a committed commander, he mobilised to lead reinforcement to the location,” another source said.

According to the accounts, the Colonel did not reach the embattled troops. His convoy ran into an ambush along the way. Insurgents had planted a remotely controlled explosive device on the route.

“He did not die inside the camp. He was on his way to support his men when Boko Haram fighters ambushed them with a controlled landmine. It was not the type you step on; it was detonated remotely at the exact moment his vehicle approached,” the source added.

The explosion killed the Colonel on the spot. It also claimed the lives of an unspecified number of accompanying soldiers.

In 2025, a lawmaker from Borno State, Ahmed Jaha, raised concerns about the growing use of drones by insurgents. He claimed that Boko Haram fighters were deploying more advanced weapons than those available to Nigerian forces.

Nigeria has faced insurgency in the North-East for more than two decades. The latest attack highlights evolving tactics by militant groups in the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI has destroyed a major terrorist logistics hub and enclave near the abandoned village of Jilli in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, following a precision air strike on April 11, 2026.

Military authorities said the operation was driven by sustained Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions over the Bindul–Jilli axis—a known corridor for Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists and their collaborators.

The strike came after a series of deadly attacks linked to the same network. In January 2026, troops moving from Gubio toward Damasak suffered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack at Bindul, killing eight soldiers and wounding several others. More recently, on April 9, coordinated attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheik were traced back to the same logistics cell.

On the day of the strike, surveillance spotted multiple gun trucks and motorcycles moving toward Jilli, with additional vehicles converging at the same point. Human intelligence sources confirmed the gathering included terrorists, logistics handlers, and collaborators. Following a rigorous targeting process, precision strikes were launched while surveillance aircraft monitored the scene in real time.

Post-strike assessment confirmed the enclave was destroyed with high accuracy. Scores of terrorists were neutralized, and their vehicles and technicals were wrecked. Survivors were seen fleeing in multiple directions. Intelligence later revealed the group was finalizing logistics for coordinated attacks on military positions in the Gubio axis.

In a related development, on April 12, a terrorist logistics courier named Turja Bulu was arrested at Ngamdu Town. During preliminary interrogation, he confessed to participating in the April 9 attack on 29 Brigade location at Benisheik. He also stated that ISWAP had dispatched him from Jilli—where many of his fellow terrorists were hiding—to deliver food to another terrorist group around the Magumeri-Gubio area.

The Theatre Command reiterated that the use of motorcycles remains strictly prohibited across the North East operational theatre, especially in Borno and Yobe States, due to their role in terrorist movement and attacks.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East), assured residents that operations would continue with renewed intensity until all terrorist enclaves are dismantled and lasting peace is restored.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government has released a list of 48 individuals and organisations alleged to have connections with terrorism financing across Nigeria.

The disclosure came on Saturday through the Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NIGSAC). The list contains names of persons and entities suspected to be involved in activities tied to extremist and banned groups. These groups include the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru), and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Among those identified is Simon Ekpa, a separatist figure based in Finland who is linked to a faction of IPOB. On September 1, 2025, the Päijät-Häme district court in Finland sentenced him to six years imprisonment over terrorism-related offences. The court held him liable for inciting terrorism and for taking part in the operations of a terrorist group.

Tukur Mamu, a publisher from Kaduna, also appears on the list. He is currently standing trial in Nigeria over allegations tied to terrorism financing. Mamu was arrested in 2022 and later charged by the federal government. The charges include claims that he supported terrorist groups through financial and logistical means. He has denied the allegations.

Other individuals named include Abdulsamat Ohida, Mohammed Sani, Abdurrahaman Abdurrahaman, Fatima Ishaq, Yusuf Ghazali, Abubakar Muhammad, Sallamudeen Hassan, Adamu Ishak, Hassana Isah, Abdulkareem Musa, Umar Abdullahi, Bashir Yusuf, Ibrahim Alhassan, Salihu Adamu, Surajo Mohammad, Fannami Bukar, Muhammed Musa, Sahabi Ismail, Mohammed Buba, Adamu Hassan, Hassan Mohammed, Usman Abubakar, Kubara Salawu, and Rabiu Suleiman.

The list also contains several names from the south-east. They include Simon Njoku, Godstime Iyare, Francis Mmadubuchi, John Onwumere, Chikwuka Eze, Edwin Chukwuedo, Chiwendu Owoh, Ginika Orji, Awo Uchechukwu, Mercy Ali, Ohagwu Juliana, Eze Okpoto, Nwaobi Chimezie, and Ogumu Kewe.

Entities listed by the committee include Jama’atu Wal-Jihad, Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru), Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Yan Group, and Yan Group NLBDG.

The development comes at a time when authorities have increased scrutiny of financial channels believed to support armed groups and separatist movements. The government has continued efforts aimed at cutting off funding sources linked to insecurity in different parts of the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Terrorists believed to be members of Boko Haram faction Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) have released a video showing 416 abducted women and children from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The footage shows the captives seated on the ground in an open area while armed insurgents stand guard around them. Some of the gunmen wore face coverings, while others had their identities exposed.

The video was reportedly produced after a request by a group known as the Borno South Youths Alliance, which had demanded proof that the abducted persons were still alive amid ongoing efforts to secure their release.

In the recording, one of the insurgents spoke in Hausa through a loudspeaker, presenting the group and addressing Nigerian authorities.

“All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah and his family. Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you,” he began.

“We are members of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, under the leadership of Imam Abu Umaymatul.

“We have gathered here today to present a few important matters. God willing, we intend to deliver a message to the Government of Nigeria, based on requests made by members of the Borno South East Alliance and others who asked for clarification about the condition of the women from Ngoshe.

“The women of Ngoshe wanted to be seen, and here they are. They are alive and in good condition. We have not harmed them in any way, nor have we mistreated them. We have kept them according to what we believe is our duty before Allah. This is because our religion instructs us to act in this manner.

“Without wasting time, since members of the Borno South East Alliance requested a video so they could see them with their own eyes, we will now allow the women to speak directly. You will hear from them and see them yourselves.”

After the statement, the captives were questioned by the insurgents and asked to confirm their identities and status. A spokesperson among the abducted persons, speaking in Hausa, confirmed they were from Ngoshe and said they were alive.

“First of all, we thank Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) who brought us to this place. Alhamdulillah, we are grateful.

“We are people from Ngoshe town. This trial and destiny befell us there. By the grace of Allah, we are alive and in good condition, together with our children, women, and elders. All of us are safe.

“Those who were injured or unwell have received treatment and care. Some of our children arrived without clothes, no shirts, no trousers, but they have now been given clothing. We have been provided with shelter and food. Alhamdulillah, we are being taken care of.”

She also expressed emotional distress over the situation and appealed for intervention from the Nigerian government and local leaders.

“Our stay here has not been difficult in terms of basic needs; we have no immediate complaints about our treatment. However, we are deeply worried and distressed because of what has happened to our relatives.

“Some people were killed when an aircraft struck, and others suffered different tragedies. Because of this, we are in emotional distress and constant worry. Our families back home are also anxious; some of them do not even know whether we are alive or dead. But now, with this video, they will at least know that we are alive.

“We are sending this message to the world so that people know we are alive and in good condition.”

She further appealed directly to top officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, and other leaders from Gwoza and Southern Borno, urging urgent action to secure their release.

“We are calling on all of them for help, assistance, and intervention.

“We sincerely wish to return to our homes because we are not used to living like this. The lifestyle here is very different from what we are accustomed to. Our children are distressed, we women are distressed, and our families back home are also suffering emotionally.

“Living in a place that is unfamiliar to you is very difficult. We are appealing for intervention so that we can be helped and returned to our homes, reunited with our children, parents, and loved ones.

“War is not good, it only brings suffering.”

Another woman, speaking in a different local language, repeated similar concerns, praising their survival while calling for urgent rescue efforts. The captives also repeatedly thanked their captors and appealed for help.

The video highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis in Nigeria’s North-East, where prolonged insurgency has displaced communities and left many civilians in captivity.

In a related background, earlier reports had indicated repeated attacks on Ngoshe and surrounding areas, including assaults on military bases and civilian settlements, which have led to deaths, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has described the soldiers killed in Thursday’s terrorist attack on a military camp in Benisheikh, Borno State, as “unforgettable heroes,” while urging Nigerians and the media to stand firmly behind the armed forces.

The attack, which targeted the 29 Task Force Brigade of Operation HADIN KAI, resulted in the death of several brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah. The Defence Headquarters confirmed the incident occurred in the early hours of April 9, 2026.

In a statement issued by the State House, President Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the military hierarchy and the families of the fallen troops.

“From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many of their fighters and commanders. The insurgents’ counterattack is a sign of desperation,” the President said.

He praised the courage of the soldiers who fought valiantly to repel the terrorists, preventing Boko Haram from overrunning local communities. Tinubu urged frontline troops not to be discouraged but to draw strength from the nation’s deep appreciation for their sacrifices.

“Do not lose heart, do not be weary, do not be discouraged. Our officers and men should continue to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism,” he said. “The government will always stand by the Armed Forces, provide more of the equipment needed, and ensure the welfare of all who risk their lives for our safety.”

The President also appealed to Nigerians and the media to desist from celebrating or condoning attacks against troops, stressing that the soldiers are “heroes, unforgettable and irreplaceable.”

He extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, pledging continued federal collaboration to achieve total victory and lasting peace.

“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” Tinubu affirmed. “Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of 18 individuals accused of supplying logistics to Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East, highlighting what it described as an expanding network of civilian support for terrorist activities.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Army said troops of Operation HADIN KAI apprehended the suspects while they were travelling through Gubio towards the Gudumbali axis, an area known for insurgent operations.

According to the military, early findings showed that the group was allegedly on a mission to deliver supplies to Boko Haram fighters.

The Army also revealed that initial confessions from the suspects pointed to economic hardship as a major reason behind their involvement.

“Initial findings indicate that the individuals were drawn into the illicit trade largely due to personal economic challenges,” the statement said, adding that insurgent groups often take advantage of vulnerable civilians to sustain their activities.

The military warned Nigerians against supporting terrorist groups in any form, stressing that such actions carry serious consequences.

“The Nigerian Army strongly warns all citizens against any form of collaboration with terrorist groups,” it stated.

“Providing logistics, intelligence, or assistance to such elements remains a serious offence, with grave consequences for national security and the safety of innocent lives.”

The Army stressed that cooperation from local communities remains vital in tackling insurgency.

“The effectiveness of ongoing operations depends greatly on the vigilance, cooperation, and active support of host communities,” the statement added, as it urged residents to report suspicious activities and resist inducements from criminal elements.

It also pointed to the need for broader socio-economic measures to address the underlying causes of insurgency.

“It is equally important to recognise the need for sustained socio-economic support and community-focused initiatives that can strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerabilities,” the statement noted.

Reaffirming its resolve, the Army said it remains committed to protecting communities and restoring peace, while calling for collective national efforts.

“Lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through a unified approach, where security operations are complemented by development efforts and strong community partnerships,” it said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (JTF) under Operation Hadin Kai, working with civilian hunters and the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), have arrested a suspected informant linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram terrorists in Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The suspect, identified as Abdullahi Umar, 25, a native of Gwoza in neighboring Borno State, was apprehended on March 23 after security operatives received credible intelligence about suspected ISWAP elements within the 232 Battalion’s Tactical Area of Responsibility.

SaharaReporters gathered that Umar was arrested during a coordinated operation involving troops and local security volunteers in the area.

A security expert and counter-insurgency analyst, Zagazola Makama, confirmed the arrest and revealed that preliminary investigations showed the suspect had been assigned by insurgents to carry out reconnaissance around military formations.

According to the findings, Umar was allegedly tasked with surveying routes leading to the 232 Battalion and other military structures to identify potential entry points for future attacks by insurgents.

During interrogation, the suspect reportedly confessed to participating in a recent attack on troops in Ngoshe, a community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

Military authorities are conducting further investigations while Umar remains in custody for possible prosecution and additional intelligence gathering.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists have abducted more than 100 women and children after attacking Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, as opposed to an earlier report that stated only 9 people and an imam were abducted.

Sources said the attackers also killed several soldiers, the chief imam of the town and some community elders during the assault. The incident happened shortly after Muslims broke their fast on Wednesday.

Security and community sources told reporters that the terrorists first targeted a military base operated by the 82 Division Task Force Battalion. After confronting the troops, they moved into the community and later stormed an Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) camp.

One of the sources said the attackers outnumbered the soldiers, which enabled them to overpower the troops before advancing into the town where the mass abduction occurred.

“The militants invaded a military base of 82 Division of TF Battalion. They also launched an assault on the internally displaced persons (IDPs) camp in the community,” the source said.

He added that the attackers pursued fleeing soldiers and later searched houses and nearby bushes.

“We cannot ascertain the actual number of soldiers and civilians killed but nine bodies of soldiers have been recovered so far,” he said.

The source also alleged that the assailants destroyed military assets during the raid.

“Residents have fled Ngoshe town to the adjoining town, Pulka. The attack is very devastating considering that refugees have started returning from Cameroon,’ one other source said.

He also suggested that internal informants might have aided the attackers.

“It’s not possible to carry out such an attack without information from within us.

“The chief imam and some elders were slaughtered by the terrorists, and over 100 women and children were abducted or missing”, he said.

Residents who escaped the attack have reportedly moved to Pulka town in search of safety.

A resident, Malam Umar, described the emotional situation among survivors.

“You will see a mother crying, searching for her children and husband or children looking for their parents.

“The trauma of losing their homes and loved ones during this difficult time is quite devastating.” he said.

Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Nigerian military launched air strikes against the fleeing terrorists after the attack.

According to the security platform Zagazola Makama, surveillance aircraft tracked the insurgents along their escape routes. The Nigerian Air Force then carried out targeted strikes which reportedly killed more than 50 of the fighters.

Security analysts have linked the renewed attacks on military facilities to ongoing operations by troops in Sambisa Forest, the Mandara Mountains and areas around Lake Chad.

Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, condemned the attack and called for stronger military operations in the affected areas.

“I strongly condemn the attack. Let me commiserate with families of those killed and wish the injured quick recovery.

“Unfortunately, soldiers, the chief imam of Ngoshe and some elders of the community were among those slaughtered or killed during the attack.

“The military base was dislodged with some major equipment destroyed, including residential houses and property worth millions of naira set ablaze. I was informed that the General Officer Commanding 7Div, Brigadier-General Ugochukwu Unachukwu and the Brigade Commander of Gwoza are right now in Ngoshe to ensure civil authority is restored.

“We are liaising with Borno State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) and the Chairman of Gwoza LGA to immediately provide relief items to the displaced persons in Pulka community,” he said.

The lawmaker also noted that the absence of stationed attack helicopters or fighter jets in the Northeast has continued to limit the military’s ability to respond swiftly to attacks.

Following the incident, the Gwoza Youth Forum appealed for humanitarian support for displaced residents who fled to Pulka.

The group’s chairman, Malam Idrissa Hamman, made the appeal in a statement.

“We humbly write to seek your urgent support for our brothers and sisters who have been displaced from Ngoshe and are currently taking refuge in Pulka.

“Many of them are living under extremely difficult conditions and lack basic necessities for daily survival.

“In view of this humanitarian situation, we are earnestly appealing for your kind support, either in cash or in kind to assist these vulnerable families.

“As a matter of urgency, we are particularly soliciting the following items: clothes, shoes, blankets, buckets, food items and other essential household items.

“This humanitarian initiative is being coordinated under the platform of the Gwoza Youths Forum.

“The chairman of the committee for this initiative is Mal. Idirisa Hamman, while the secretary is Engr. Aliyu Shehu & BK Glavda as Member,” he said.

The attack adds to a series of deadly assaults carried out by terrorists and bandits across several Nigerian states since the beginning of Ramadan. Security incidents have been reported in Borno, Zamfara, Kebbi, Adamawa, Niger and Kaduna states in recent weeks.

Islamic scholars have also condemned the killings.

A Kano-based cleric, Dr Ibrahim Siraj, said Islam strongly forbids the taking of human life.

Quoting from the Qur’an, he said: “Whoever kills a believer intentionally, his recompense is Hell, to abide therein forever; and the wrath and curse of Allah are upon him, and a dreadful punishment is prepared for him.”

He said the offence becomes even more serious when it occurs during Ramadan.

“In addition to violating the sanctity of life, it also violates the sanctity of the month itself. Ramadan is a time when Muslims are encouraged to do good, refrain from bad behaviour, and draw closer to Allah. To take a life in this holy month is to show contempt and disrespect for its sacredness,” he said.

Another cleric, Sheikh Halliru Maraya of Kaduna, also stressed that the attacks contradict Islamic teachings.

“One of the reasons these criminal gunmen step up their atrocities against Nigerians during the holy month of Ramadan is that they are not acting in the name of Islam or based on its teachings. They are simply acting on their own whims and caprices.

“These atrocities clearly contradict the faith. Islam does not condone violence, let alone the taking of human life without a just cause. According to the Qur’an, taking a human life unjustly is like killing all of mankind. Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption in the land – it is as if he had slain all mankind,” he said.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents have attacked and destroyed three trucks loaded with fish in Borno State.

Daily Trust reported that the incident occurred at Mile-forty in Magumeri Local Government Area on Thursday afternoon. Sources said the drivers were heading to Maiduguri when the assailants intercepted them at about 1:00pm.

A security source confirmed that the drivers escaped unharmed, but the vehicles were completely burnt.

“Thank God that all the drivers escaped but the three vehicles: two Peugeot J5 and a school bus loaded with fish were burnt down,” the source said.

One of the affected drivers, who asked not to be identified, described the ordeal. He said they abandoned their vehicles and fled into nearby bushes when the attackers struck.

“We parked the vehicles and ran into the bush. Thank God we all made it alive but I watched helplessly as the only means of my livelihood got burnt to ashes. Tell the government to do something on that road.

“Before, they used to abduct people and demand ransom from families, but they frequently intercept vehicles these days to loot and burn them down,” he said.

The driver appealed to the federal government and security agencies to deploy more personnel along the route in order to safeguard travellers and their property.

This latest attack follows a similar pattern of assaults along the Maiduguri–Monguno axis. On February 10, 2026, insurgents reportedly stopped four trailers conveying cattle from Monguno to Maiduguri. They carted away over 100 cows and set the vehicles on fire.

Four days earlier, gunmen blocked four trucks carrying beans to Maiduguri from Monguno at Garin Kashim in Guzamala LGA. The trucks were also burnt.

Several drivers who ply the road blamed the repeated incidents on the absence of adequate security presence.

“It has become a daily occurrence now and no action has been taken. From Maiduguri, one can only find a military checkpoint at Gajaganna, Gajiram, and the new one in Mairari, then Monguno.

“Unless the government takes this seriously, livestock and grain businesses that begin to thrive in those areas would soon collapse. Because, we can no longer risk our lives and vehicles on thatk road,” he said.

The driver further urged authorities to strengthen security on the road. He cited the Gwoza axis, where soldiers have been strategically stationed to prevent attacks.

“Many truck owners have now withdrawn their vehicles from this road. These things kept happening and no action has been taken so far,“ he said.