An ISWAP commander killed alongside dozens of fighters has emerged as one of the outcomes of recent military operations conducted across the North-East, according to the Defence Headquarters. Military authorities disclosed that troops neutralised more than 50 terrorists during coordinated offensives targeting insurgent strongholds in Borno State and surrounding areas. The operation, which resulted in the ISWAP commander killed, forms part of ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist networks operating in the region.
The North-East has remained the focal point of counterinsurgency operations against Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP. Security forces have intensified both ground and air operations in recent months as part of efforts to disrupt terrorist activities, dismantle camps, and restore stability to affected communities.
The Nigerian military has continued to conduct clearance operations under Operation Hadin Kai, targeting known insurgent enclaves, logistics routes, and command structures across the Lake Chad region and the Sambisa axis. Recent operations have focused on denying terrorists freedom of movement while improving security around communities vulnerable to attacks and infiltration.
According to military authorities, the latest operation was conducted in several locations within the North-East theatre, where troops engaged terrorists in a series of coordinated encounters. The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, said troops neutralised more than 50 terrorists during the offensive. He disclosed that among those killed was a senior ISWAP commander identified as Mallam Jidda.
Kangye stated that the operation was supported by intelligence-driven actions and sustained military pressure on insurgent hideouts. According to him, troops successfully overpowered the terrorists during engagements that took place in parts of Borno State.
The military spokesman further revealed that a significant cache of weapons and ammunition was recovered during the operation. Items seized included firearms, explosives, communication equipment, motorcycles, and other materials allegedly used by the insurgents.
He added that several terrorist camps and logistics facilities were destroyed, while troops also rescued individuals who had been held captive by the insurgents. The Defence Headquarters stated that the operation was part of broader military efforts aimed at dismantling the command structure of terrorist groups and reducing their operational capabilities across the North-East.
The ISWAP commander killed during the operation represents a significant development in ongoing counterterrorism efforts. Security analysts note that the removal of senior commanders can disrupt coordination, intelligence gathering, and operational planning within insurgent networks.
Military authorities, however, have maintained that sustained pressure remains necessary to prevent regrouping by terrorist elements. The recovery of weapons and destruction of camps are also viewed as measures that could weaken insurgent capacity in the short term.
The operation comes amid continued efforts by security agencies to improve stability in communities affected by years of insurgency and displacement.
