Troops of Operation Hadin Kai, the Nigerian military’s ongoing campaign against insurgents in the Northeast, have successfully repelled a fierce attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Wulgo community, Borno State. The military killed at least seven insurgents, including two top commanders, in the intense gun battle that took place earlier this week.
According to security sources who spoke on Thursday, the two commanders who lost their lives were identified as Abu Nazir, the Munzir (field leader) of Juye, and Abu Fatima, the Munzir of Koloram. These commanders are believed to have played key roles in coordinating attacks across various towns in the region.
The attack occurred when the insurgents launched a heavy offensive, reportedly coming heavily armed to overwhelm the troops stationed in Wulgo. However, the soldiers mounted a strong defense, engaging the attackers decisively and inflicting heavy casualties on their ranks.
A security source said, “The terrorists came heavily armed but were decisively engaged. We inflicted heavy casualties on them, including two of their senior commanders. Several others were injured during the exchange of fire.”
In addition to the lives lost, the troops recovered four motorcycles that belonged to the insurgents. Motorcycles are commonly used by insurgents in the Northeast for quick movement and surprise attacks, making their seizure an important gain for the military.
However, the soldiers also suffered some loss when an armoured military vehicle known as a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle (MRAP) was set ablaze by the insurgents as they fled the scene.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian troops as they continue their fight against insurgency in Borno State, which has remained the epicenter of Boko Haram and ISWAP activities in the country.
ISWAP is a violent jihadist group that split from the original Boko Haram faction and has since become one of the deadliest terrorist organizations operating in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin region. The group has frequently targeted military and civilian populations in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, among others.
Operation Hadin Kai was launched by the Nigerian military to combat Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the Northeast. The operation aims to dismantle the groups’ camps, reduce attacks on communities, and restore peace and security in the affected states.
Over the past few years, the Nigerian military has recorded several successes against insurgent groups, including the killing of senior commanders and freeing of captive civilians. However, the insurgents remain a serious threat, and attacks continue to cause fear and disruption in many communities.
The killing of Abu Nazir and Abu Fatima is considered a major blow to ISWAP’s leadership and operational capability in Borno State. Commanders like these are often responsible for planning attacks, recruiting fighters, and maintaining control over various territories.
Military analysts say that removing such leaders disrupts the insurgents’ command structure and weakens their ability to carry out coordinated attacks. It also sends a strong message to other insurgents that the military remains determined to dismantle their network.
Furthermore, recovering the motorcycles deprives the terrorists of mobility, which is crucial for their hit-and-run tactics. On the other hand, losing an MRAP is a setback for the troops, but it underscores the risks faced by soldiers on the frontline.
Borno State has been at the center of Nigeria’s fight against terrorism since 2009, when Boko Haram first launched its violent campaign. Since then, thousands have been killed, millions displaced, and entire communities destroyed.
Despite several military offensives, the group and its offshoots like ISWAP continue to carry out attacks on military convoys, markets, villages, and religious gatherings, causing widespread fear.
The military, government, and local communities have intensified efforts to improve security through joint operations, intelligence gathering, and community support. Local vigilante groups have also been formed in many areas to assist security forces.
However, experts warn that the conflict is complex and requires not only military action but also political will, development programs, and dialogue to address the root causes of insurgency, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
The Nigerian military has reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and defeating insurgency in the Northeast. The troops involved in Operation Hadin Kai continue to carry out patrols, raids, and surveillance to prevent further attacks.
Citizens in affected communities, including Wulgo, have welcomed the military’s efforts but call for increased presence and faster response to attacks. Many people remain displaced due to ongoing violence, and the hope is that such victories will bring lasting peace.
