Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have foiled attempted terrorist attacks on two Forward Operating Bases in Borno State, with two terrorists surrendering and weapons recovered after the engagements.
The developments were disclosed in a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, in Maiduguri on 18 September 2026.
According to him, troops detected terrorists advancing towards Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gajiram in Nganzai Local Government Area on 17 September, with support from Multinational Joint Task Force intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets.
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The troops adopted defensive measures while the Air Component provided close air support, forcing the terrorists to withdraw from the vicinity into adjoining areas.
Later that night, terrorists identified as members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) attacked FOB Mairari in the Guzamala Local Government Area.
The attackers met resistance from troops supported by close air support from the Air Component, with casualties reportedly inflicted on the terrorists.
Subsequent exploitation of the area led to the recovery of four terrorist corpses, as well as weapons, ammunition and other equipment.
Troops who sustained injuries during the engagement were stabilised and evacuated to hospital, where they are receiving medical attention.
Following the engagements, the Commander, Sector 3, Operation HADIN KAI, conducted a post-engagement assessment of the affected locations and coordinated follow-on operations.
The military said the two locations were subsequently reinforced as troops continued operations to prevent terrorist elements from regrouping.
Two JAS Members Surrender
In a related development, two members of Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS), including a Qaid, surrendered to troops of Sector 1, Operation HADIN KAI, along the Miyanti-Darel Jamel axis in Bama Local Government Area on the night of 16 September.
The two surrendered with weapons, ammunition and a motorcycle and are currently in military custody for preliminary investigation and profiling, in accordance with established procedures.
The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, commended the troops, the MNJTF intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance team and aircrew for what he described as their vigilance, courage and effective coordination.
He reaffirmed the operation’s intention to maintain pressure on terrorist elements and protect communities across the North East.
Major General Ajose also urged terrorists still in the bush to lay down their arms and surrender through established channels.
He called on members of the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security forces.
