Troops Foil Coordinated Terrorist Attacks In Adamawa, Borno; Scores Neutralised
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in parts of Adamawa and Borno States, neutralising scores of insurgents during decisive engagements and follow-up operations.
In the early hours of 16 January 2026, terrorists attempted to overrun a patrol base at Sabon Gari, Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, under Sector 4 of OPHK. Alert troops swiftly engaged the attackers, supported by reinforcements from Gulak and the Battalion Quick Reaction Force. The attackers were repelled without any casualty to own troops or equipment, forcing them to abandon the attack. The area was subsequently cleared and scanned for improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and booby traps to ensure the safety of troops and civilians.
On the same day, terrorists launched a large-scale, multi-directional attack on Forward Operating Base (FOB) Azir in Borno State. The attackers attempted to breach part of the defensive perimeter but were met with overwhelming and sustained firepower from gallant troops, with support from the Air Component of OPHK and other Nigerian Army aerial platforms. After a prolonged firefight lasting over an hour, the terrorists were decisively overpowered and forced to withdraw.
During the engagement, Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) fire from the terrorists affected some troop-carrying vehicles and the CCTV control room, which were partially gutted by fire. Despite this, troops maintained firm control of the situation and prevented any further damage.
Several weapons and ammunition were recovered from the fleeing terrorists, including a 60mm mortar tube, mortar bombs, locally fabricated explosives, heavy machine gun rounds, and hundreds of rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition.
Exploiting the success, persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platforms tracked the fleeing terrorists along their withdrawal routes. This enabled precision follow-up strikes by the Nigerian Air Force, resulting in the neutralisation of additional scores of terrorists. Evidence from post-strike exploitation confirmed that the terrorists suffered heavy casualties, dealing a severe blow to their fighting strength and morale.
The sacrifices and resilience of personnel underscore the commitment of OPHK troops to securing lives and property in the North East.
Troops remain resolute and unwavering in their mandate to deny terrorists freedom of action, dismantle their networks, and restore lasting peace to the region. Operations are ongoing until all threats are eliminated.
