Nigerian forces have conducted a series of successful operations against terrorist groups in the North East, neutralising fighters and severely disrupting their logistics networks.
The actions, which took place between 25 and 31 October 2025, thwarted multiple planned attacks across Borno and Adamawa States.
According to a statement from the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, the troops “successfully thwarted multiple terrorist attacks and neutralized key threats.” The statement, signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer, detailed that the troops “stood firm, executed swift responses, and thwarted enemy advances, all while safeguarding civilians.”
One of the most critical engagements occurred on 25 October in Kukawa Town, where troops foiled a major suicide bomb attack. The military reported that “troops foiled terrorists’ attempt to force their way into Kukawa Town using a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED).” After initial rocket fire bounced off the armoured vehicle, it was “eventually neutralized by a T-55 tank, preventing a catastrophic attack.” A 10-year-old girl sustained minor injuries and was treated at a medical facility.
Further operations saw troops, in cooperation with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), discover and safely dispose of three Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in the Dikwa–Ajiri axis, “averting potential sabotage on major supply routes.” An ambush operation on 29 October conducted by the 192 Battalion in collaboration with the CJTF “neutralised two terrorists, forcing others to flee into the Mandara Mountains.” Items recovered confirmed the terrorists’ continued use of bicycles for mobility.
The military’s offensive continued with a night ambush on 30 October along the Bama–Konduga route, where troops “successfully engaged terrorists attempting to cross from the Gezuwa axis towards Sambisa Forest,” forcing them to “flee in disarray.” In a separate operation under Operation Strangulation, forces intercepted a drum of fuel and two motorcycles used for its “illegal conveyance” in Adamawa State.
A cordon and search operation in Sabon Gari village led to the arrest of five suspects. The operation was launched based on “credible intelligence on plans by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists to infiltrate” the area. The military confirmed that “a pair of desert camouflage uniform and one round of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition were found in possession of one suspect,” and that “preliminary investigations are ongoing.”
A follow-up operation on 31 October led to the recovery of “one terrorist’s corpse, one AK 47 rifle… 90 rounds of 7.62mm × 54mm linked ammunition and four bicycles.” The Air Component provided critical support throughout the week, “conducting precision strikes and enhancing battlefield awareness.”
The Military High Command commended the troops for their “gallantry, professionalism, and renewed commitment to ensuring security and stability in the North East region.” The statement concluded by reaffirming that the “Nigerian Armed Forces remain committed to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace to the North East.”