Yobe

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a military base in Goniri, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorists.

The attack, which unfolded from the night of March 9 into the early hours of March 10, saw ISWAP fighters attempt to overrun the location of the 120 Task Force Battalion. Military sources stated that the terrorists launched the assault from multiple directions, specifically from Goniri village and the Ngamdu junction, in an attempt to encircle the base.

According to a statement released on Wednesday by the media information officer for the Joint Task Force, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the troops’ surveillance assets detected the advancing threat early, allowing for a coordinated defensive response.

“The gallant troops responded with exceptional manoeuvre and firepower, coordinating their defensive actions while reinforcements and the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided timely and decisive air support,” Lt. Col. Uba said.

The combination of ground firepower and aerial bombardment proved decisive, forcing the militants to retreat in disarray. At least 20 terrorists were confirmed killed during the firefight, including a senior commander identified as Abu Yusu, who served as the Munzir (commander) of the Dursula area.

“Several terrorist bodies were left behind, while troops recovered weapons and equipment abandoned during the retreat, including machine guns, AK-47 rifles, bombs and assorted ammunition of various calibre,” the statement read.

A follow-up patrol conducted in the Gwaigomari area, within the notorious Timbuktu Triangle, led to the recovery of additional bodies of the fighters early on March 11.

While confirming that the troops successfully defended the base, Lt. Col. Uba noted that the intensity of the attack caused damage to some structures and vehicles within the camp. He also confirmed that some troops were injured in the battle. They have since been evacuated and are reportedly in stable condition receiving medical treatment.

The military spokesman emphasized that the location remains firmly under the control of Operation HADIN KAI. Ground forces, still supported by air assets, are currently conducting follow-up operations and search missions in neighbouring communities where some wounded terrorists are believed to be hiding. The military reaffirmed its commitment to the total defeat of terrorist groups operating in the North-East region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded a major operational success with the discovery and destruction of ISWAP terrorist detention facilities deep inside the Timbuktu Triangle in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.

The disclosure was contained in a statement signed by Sani Uba, Lieutenant Colonel, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, North East Operation HADIN KAI, dated 3 February 2026.

The breakthrough followed coordinated military actions carried out over the last two weeks. The development signals a steady push by security forces into territories once regarded as inaccessible and reflects the growing strength of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North East.

The operation took place under Operation DESERT SANITY V. Sustained military pressure, supported by actionable intelligence, compelled the terrorists to abandon key installations within their strongholds. Military sources said the outcome showed that OPHK troops had penetrated inner hideouts of ISWAP, which reduced both the group’s operational space and morale.

Between 21 January 2026 and the present date, troops uncovered and destroyed three major detention facilities hidden within the Timbuktu Triangle forest, an area that spans parts of Borno and Yobe states. Initial assessments revealed that the facilities could hold as many as 300 detainees, which pointed to their importance within ISWAP’s structure. Security findings also linked the offensive to the escape of more than 70 captives who had been held by the terrorists. Several of the escapees later resurfaced in communities such as Goniri, Buratai and Mandaragirau.

One of the freed captives, Malam Jidda Ba Jidda, from Kufi village near Buratai in Biu Local Government Area, said he was abducted on 22 December 2025. He disclosed that he escaped during a gun duel between the terrorists and advancing troops in the Timbuktu Triangle.

Military encounters in the area led to heavy losses for ISWAP. No fewer than 32 fighters were neutralised, including two Qaids and three Munzirs. Several others sustained serious injuries during confrontations with troops.

After troops cleared the area, the three detention facilities were demolished to prevent any future use by the terrorists. The military described the mission as successful and incident-free, citing the discipline and combat efficiency of OPHK personnel.

Security officials said the destruction of the camps went beyond a tactical gain. The action weakened ISWAP’s internal control system, disrupted its ability to detain civilians and demand ransom, and further limited its freedom of movement. They added that the escape of many detainees reduced a major source of funding for the group and could provide useful intelligence for ongoing operations.

While the overall security situation across the theatre remains calm but unpredictable, the military said troop morale and operational effectiveness remain satisfactory. The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to sustained pressure on terrorist elements, denial of safe havens, and the restoration of lasting peace and security across the North East.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

A 17-year-old Nigerian student, Nafisa Abdullah Aminu from Yobe State, has defeated over 20,000 competitors from 69 countries to win the 2025 TeenEagle Global English Championship in London.

Nafisa, a student of Nigerian Tulip International College (NTIC), Yobe, showcased exceptional language proficiency and communication skills, surpassing even native English speakers in the prestigious contest.

Her family attributed the victory to her hard work, supportive educational environment, and the Yobe State government’s commitment to quality education under Governor Mai Mala Buni.

They called for official recognition of her achievement, stating it proves Nigerian students can excel globally when given the right opportunities.

The win has been celebrated as a milestone for Nigeria’s education sector, bringing pride to Nafisa’s school, community, and the nation.