By RismadarVoice Media
December 27, 2025
Between May and December of this year, troops from the Joint Task Force North-East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) Theater Command have neutralized 438 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists, Theater Commander Maj. Gen. Abdusalam Abubakar announced this on Saturday.
Speaking at the Chief of Army Staff Christmas Luncheon in Maiduguri, Gen. Abubakar highlighted significant progress made by the forces within the period.
On weapons recovered, he said troops seized 254 assorted weapons during the period. He revealed that a total of 366 civilians were rescued from various terrorist strongholds.
He also disclosed that 881 JAS/ISWAP fighters and their family members surrendered to the troops, adding that the forces recovered 300 Starlink communication devices within the period under review.
To bolster anti-terror operations, the command has established new Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) at Duji and Kekeno.
Gen. Abubakar also emphasized the successful resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs) as a key milestone for OPHK, achieved with substantial support from the Borno State Government (BOSG). Communities like Mallam Fatori, Darel Jamel, Delwa, Kekeno, and Mairari have shown remarkable resilience following their return.
The luncheon was attended by several dignitaries, including Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Bukar Tijjani, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, represented by the Commander of the Infantry Corp, Maj. Gen. Godwin Mutkut.
Highpoint of the event involved the dignitaries serving food to wounded troops, referred to as “Special Soldiers”.
The Army Chief’s representative expressed the event’s goal to inject more impetus into the troops, encouraging them to persist until terror is completely eradicated from the region.
