RismadarVoice Reporters
March 1, 2026
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have repelled coordinated attacks by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on several Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Borno State, killing several insurgents and recovering heavy weapons and ammunition.
The incidents, which occurred between the late hours of February 28 and the early hours of March 1, 2026, targeted FOBs in Mayanti, Gajigana and Gajiram under Sector 2 of the operation.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the military said troops successfully foiled the attacks and maintained control of all affected locations.
According to the statement, FOB Mayanti came under heavy attack on February 28 by a large number of insurgents. Troops reportedly held their ground despite intense gunfire, while reinforcements navigated ambushes and improvised explosive device threats to support the defence.
Exploitation operations conducted after the encounter confirmed the recovery of several weapons, including three PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, two RPG-7 launchers, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, three RPG bombs and large quantities of 7.62mm ammunition. Five bodies of insurgents were reportedly found, with blood trails suggesting additional casualties.
The military, however, confirmed the loss of an officer during the encounter.
At about 1:15 a.m. on March 1, insurgents armed with machine guns, rocket-propelled grenades and drones attacked FOB Gajiram. The troops, supported by air assets, repelled the assault.
Three bodies were recovered along the insurgents’ withdrawal route, alongside four AK-47 rifles, five anti-tank bombs, three locally fabricated mortar bombs, one armed drone, six fully loaded 7.62mm NATO magazines and other items. A soldier injured during the clash was airlifted by a Nigerian Army Aviation helicopter for advanced medical care.
The attack on FOB Gajigana was also thwarted, with troops retaining full control of their position.
In separate offensive operations, troops engaged insurgents at Kayawa Village, forcing them to flee and abandon a tricycle, three motorcycles and five bicycles. The military said it destroyed identified logistics structures and arrested two suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers. Drugs and medical supplies allegedly used to treat wounded fighters were also recovered.
Additionally, during an ambush around Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba Local Government Area, troops reportedly killed two insurgents and recovered two AK-47 rifles, four magazines and other items.
The military said all affected areas remain under its control, adding that the scale of recoveries and reported casualties reflects continued pressure on ISWAP elements in the region.
