Borno

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.

No fewer than 117 former insurgents have concluded the Federal Government’s de-radicalisation, rehabilitation and reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor in Borno State.

The development was announced during a high-level stakeholders’ meeting organised by the Defence Headquarters in collaboration with the leadership of Operation Safe Corridor at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre in Abuja.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Samaila Uba, Director of Defence Information, said the coordinator of Operation Safe Corridor, Y. Ali, disclosed that the ex-combatants completed the Disarmament, Demobilisation and Reintegration (DRR) process at the Mallam Sidi Camp.

According to Ali, the meeting focused on finalising arrangements for the transfer of the rehabilitated individuals to their respective national and state authorities for reintegration into society. He noted that the latest development reflects improved cooperation between federal and state governments in the areas of reception, monitoring and community reintegration.

Ali commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oloyede, for what he described as strong leadership and institutional backing. He stated that the progress recorded by Operation Safe Corridor aligns with the CDS philosophy, which promotes enhanced jointness, improved welfare and effective administration within a whole-of-government structure.

He explained that the initiative operates as a multi-agency humanitarian stabilisation programme supported by the 1999 Constitution and relevant international humanitarian and human rights frameworks. The programme draws personnel from 17 services, ministries, departments and agencies.

Since its establishment, he said the initiative has strengthened its screening procedures, reviewed its ideological disengagement modules, enhanced psychosocial recovery systems and expanded coordination among participating agencies. He added that the structure of the programme prioritises accountability, behavioural reform and sustainable reintegration.

Ali also disclosed that the programme has extended to the North-West region. A DRR camp established there in February last year marked what he described as an important stabilisation step. He revealed ongoing discussions with the Zamfara State Government to reposition the facility towards a broader framework that will focus on victim healing, rehabilitation and reintegration, alongside psychosocial recovery, community reconciliation, livelihood assistance and structured monitoring.

He further stated that Benue State has formally requested the establishment of a DRR camp. He said the Defence Headquarters has inspected proposed locations and advised that any approval must align with national standards on infrastructure, security and sustainability.

Ali outlined the objectives of the stakeholders’ meeting. He said participants were expected to define the responsibilities of state authorities and relevant ministries, departments and agencies, develop structured resettlement support systems, determine approaches for community sensitisation and camp visitation, and approve graduation timelines for rehabilitated clients.

The Chief of Defence Staff, represented by Jamal Abdusalam, Chief of Defence Operations, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to a comprehensive government and societal approach to peacebuilding and national recovery. He described Operation Safe Corridor as a vital component of the country’s security framework.

“Since its inception in 2016, operation safe corridor has processed thousands of clients through a controlled and integrity-driven disarmament, rehabilitation and reintegration framework,” he said.

“When properly screened and coordinated, surrender pathways degrade insurgent cohesion, generate actionable intelligence and support long-term stability.”

The meeting attracted representatives from federal ministries, the Office of the National Security Adviser, state governments and neighbouring countries including Burkina Faso, Chad, Niger and Cameroon. International partners such as Norway, the United Kingdom, the European Union, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, the International Committee of the Red Cross and the International Organisation for Migration were also represented.

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.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Borno State Police Command has paid out N20,137,770.34 to families of officers who died while serving the nation.

The amount was released to nine beneficiaries under the Group Life Insurance Scheme. The presentation took place during a cheque handover ceremony. According to the command, the support is meant to assist the families with education, healthcare and other welfare needs.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Nahum Daso, confirmed the development in a statement issued on Thursday.

The Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Finance and Administration, Ibrahim Sumaila, stood in for the Commissioner of Police, Naziru Abdulmajid, at the ceremony. He also delivered a message from the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The message stressed that the Force places high value on the welfare of its personnel and their families.

“The Group Life Insurance Scheme is a testament to the IGP’s commitment to supporting officers who made the ultimate sacrifice for national peace and security,” DCP Sumaila said. He advised the beneficiaries to make careful use of the money.

A representative of the families, Mr. Modu Ishaku, expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General for the support. He assured that the funds would be used judiciously.

This payment comes after a similar exercise in January 2026, when about N18.38 million was distributed to another nine families of fallen officers.

The Group Life Assurance Scheme provides financial assistance to families of deceased police personnel across the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Several Nigerian soldiers were reportedly killed after fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked a military base in Borno State, according to military sources.

According to a report by SaharaReporters, the assault took place on Thursday at a military formation in Sabon Gari, Damboa Local Government Area. Sources said that the insurgents stormed the base and opened sporadic fire, which led to heavy casualties among soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

An exact number of those killed has yet to be confirmed. One of the sources said, “There was an attack, many soldiers were killed, but I don’t have the correct figure yet.”

The source added that the attackers set armoured tanks and other military vehicles on fire and escaped with a large quantity of ammunition. ISWAP later claimed responsibility for the attack in a statement, which was accompanied by a video showing its members firing towards the military facility.

The incident occurred only days after another deadly attack in the state. Seven military personnel, including a newly promoted Lieutenant Colonel, were killed in an ambush by the terrorists earlier in the week.

A report earlier indicated that Lieutenant Colonel Mohammed was leading a convoy of soldiers from Maiduguri to Damasak in Mobbar Local Government Area of Borno State when the troops came under attack on Monday, January 26, 2026. Military sources said the insurgents deployed explosives and heavy gunfire during the ambush.

Apart from those killed, several soldiers sustained serious injuries, while the whereabouts of some personnel remain unknown.

Since the death of former Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau, ISWAP has strengthened its presence around the Lake Chad region. The group has also grown in number following the defection of hundreds of fighters who were previously loyal to Shekau.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have achieved notable operational successes across the North-East, following sustained intelligence-led military actions against terrorist groups and criminal elements in the region.

This is contained in a statement signed by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on January 31, 2026.

According to the statement, intelligence sources confirmed the killing of JULAIBIB, a senior ISWAP commander operating along the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle. The terrorist leader was killed during a clash with troops around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State on January 30, 2026.

Further intelligence reports indicated that the development threw ISWAP fighters in the area into confusion, as several of them were also eliminated during the encounter. The development dealt a significant blow to the group’s command and control structure in the area.

In another operation, OPHK troops, working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, neutralised three terrorists during a carefully planned ambush between Ngazalgana and Lamusheri communities in Borno State. The operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of insurgents within the area. Troops positioned themselves along the identified route and engaged the terrorists with effective firepower. Three insurgents were killed, while others escaped with gunshot wounds. Two AK-47 rifles were recovered from the scene. The military said the operation formed part of ongoing efforts to restrict terrorist movement and weaken their operational capacity across the theatre.

Similarly, on January 29, 2026, troops deployed on an ambush at Tsokorok in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State encountered Boko Haram and ISWAP elements. The troops engaged the terrorists, which forced them to retreat. One terrorist was neutralised during the encounter, while no casualty was recorded among the troops. Two motorcycles were recovered at the scene.

Troops also recorded several successes in Adamawa State. On January 29, 2026, soldiers responded to a distress call from Barama community in Mubi North Local Government Area, where they foiled an armed robbery attempt. Two suspects who attempted to attack a student of the Federal Polytechnic, Mubi, were arrested. One of the suspects sustained a gunshot wound on the thigh while attempting to confront the troops and was taken to the Federal Medical Centre, Mubi, for medical treatment. The suspects were later handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation. Items recovered from them included three cutlasses, two laptops, four mobile phones, and one power bank.

Earlier, on January 28, 2026, troops, in collaboration with local vigilantes, carried out a fighting patrol along the Amtasa–Washim axis in Hong Local Government Area of Adamawa State. During the patrol, the troops encountered terrorists and engaged them with heavy fire, which forced the attackers to flee in confusion. The troops also rescued a woman who had been abducted by the terrorists. Weapons recovered during the operation included one AK-47 rifle with registration number 2056792, two rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one SMG rifle, and 42 rounds of assorted ammunition.

According to the military, the overall security situation across the theatre remains stable. Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property, dismantling terrorist networks, and working closely with local communities and relevant security stakeholders to restore lasting peace and economic stability across the North-East.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A major in the Nigerian Army has died following an attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a military patrol in Damasak, the headquarters of Mobbar Local Government Area in Borno State.

Sources said that the officer, who commanded the Damasak military base, was leading a foot patrol of approximately 30 soldiers early on Friday when the team came under explosives and gunfire from the insurgents.

“From what I gathered the commander of the Damasak base led a foot patrol of 30 troops early on Friday. They came under explosives and gun attack from ISWAP, forcing them to disperse. Only eight soldiers returned to base while 22 are unaccounted for, including the commander, a major,” a source said.

Reports indicated that attempts to reach the major by phone were answered by an unknown individual, leading to speculation that he might have been captured. “Someone answers his phone each time his base tries to reach him, indicating he is in the hands of ISWAP,” the source added.

However, another security source disputed the claim of abduction, asserting that the officer was killed during the ambush.

The incident follows a similar attack last year when Brigadier General M. Uba was killed by ISWAP fighters after they ambushed a convoy of soldiers and Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operatives along Damboa Road in Borno while transporting military equipment.

This attack shows the ongoing threat posed by ISWAP in the region and the continuing risks faced by Nigerian military personnel in the northeast.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The first group of Gwoza community refugees has returned home from the Republic of Cameroon.

The Daily Reality gathered that the group, consisting of 300 individuals, arrived in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area, after spending nearly 11 years in a refugee camp in Cameroon.

The return was confirmed in a statement issued by the Borno State Governor’s spokesman, Dauda Iliya.

The statement explained that the repatriation program follows the visit by Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, to the refugee camp in Cameroon on December 8, 2025. During that visit, Governor Zulum pledged to facilitate their safe, orderly, and dignified return home.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), operating under Operation DESERT SANITY V, have recorded another breakthrough in efforts to weaken terrorist logistics and criminal support structures in the North East.

This is contained in a statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information OfficerHeadquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, on January 25, 2026.

The success followed actionable intelligence received on January 23, 2026, which led to the arrest of a suspected drug dealer, Hauwa Abulazeez, aged 65, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

The suspect is believed to be a major supplier of cannabis sativa to Boko Haram elements operating in Askira Uba, Rumirgo, Gwahi, Wamdiyo, Uvu and Gaya communities, and is also accused of serving as a key link in the distribution chain across several locations within the theatre of operation.

Preliminary findings revealed that the illicit substance was allegedly sourced from Sarti Baruwa Local Government Area of Taraba State before being transported through established routes for distribution.

During the operation, troops recovered 14 compressed blocks of cannabis sativa, with an estimated weight of about 30 kilograms.

The suspect is currently in custody and undergoing preliminary investigation, while further operations continue to track and dismantle the wider network involved in the trafficking and distribution of the drug.

The military noted that disrupting such illicit supply chains plays a critical role in reducing violence, criminal activity and instability across the region, while strengthening lawful authority and security.

Operation HADIN KAI reaffirmed its commitment to confronting all forms of criminal activity in the North East, stressing that intelligence-led operations and sustained pressure will continue until lasting peace and stability are restored.

By Ibrahim Badamasi Abdulrahman

Amid the widespread circulation of fictitious conspiracy theories alleging a so-called Christian genocide in Nigeria by Muslims, narratives often promoted by a few self-interested actors for personal gain and the advancement of narrow agendas, to the detriment of national cohesion and Nigeria’s sovereignty, one would expect a media house of Channels Television’s standing to exercise heightened objectivity and sensitivity.

Such care is essential, particularly given how these narratives were weaponised to invite foreign hostility under the guise of protecting Christians.

In reporting the same incident, Al Jazeera English headlined: “Explosion rocks crowded mosque in Nigeria, killing at least five.”

The BBC World Service reported: “Bomb blast in packed Nigerian mosque kills five.”

Sadly, Channels Television chose the headline: “BREAKING: Many Feared Dead As Bomb Blast Rocks Maiduguri On Christmas Eve.”

This choice is troubling, particularly given the well-known reality that casual or “lazy” readers far outnumber those who read beyond headlines. To such readers, and to warmongers or actors with selfish interests, the dominant keywords become “dead,” “bomb blast,” and “Christmas.”

These are easily stripped of context and repackaged to advance dangerous and divisive narratives.

Even international outlets such as The Times of Israel reported the incident as a mosque bombing, yet a Nigerian media organisation that prides itself on being Nigeria’s most awarded television station for over fifteen years failed to appreciate that, in this environment, headlines often matter more than the content beneath them.

This may not have been deliberate. However, it was reckless, and it was insensitive, especially in a country already grappling with deep religious fault lines and the harmful consequences of misinformation.

A media house of Channels Television’s stature ought to lead in restraint, precision, and contextual responsibility, particularly at moments when careless framing can inflame tensions and deepen existing harm.

It is within this context that the media is regarded as the Fourth Estate. This designation is not in a vacuum. Rather, it reflects the media’s role in filling the gap of accountability, transparency, and public awareness left by the three arms of government in a democracy.

As a watchdog, the media observes, questions, exposes, and informs the public. While it does not exercise the powers of governance, legislation, or adjudication, it carries the grave responsibility of ensuring that the successes and failures of the three arms of government are accurately, responsibly, and sensitively presented to the people, especially in a society where careless framing can inflame tensions and deepen existing harm.

Ibrahim Badamasi Abdulrahman wrote in from Borno State, Nigeria.