Troops confirm multiple Boko Haram/ISWAP attacks in Borno, Yobe

2026-03-09 - 16:58

By Ndahi Marama, Maiduguri Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have confirmed coordinated attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on military positions in Dalwa, Goniri, Kukawa and Mainok, as well as a troops’ harbour location deep inside Sambisa Forest in Borno and Yobe states. The confirmation was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba. According to the statement, troops successfully repelled the coordinated assaults launched by ISWAP terrorists on military formations in the affected communities. “The attacks occurred during the night of March 8–9, 2026, between 2200 hours and 0300 hours. The terrorists launched simultaneous assaults from several directions in an apparent attempt to overwhelm troop positions,” the statement said. Despite the intensity of the attacks and heavy firepower used by the insurgents, troops stood their ground and responded with determination. “Fighting across multiple fronts, the troops effectively coordinated their defensive actions while reinforcements and the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided timely and decisive support during the engagements,” it added. The terrorists were eventually forced to retreat after suffering significant casualties, leaving several bodies behind. Troops also recovered weapons and equipment abandoned during the retreat, including two PKT machine guns, six AK-47 rifles, eight RPG bombs, four mortar bombs, and assorted ammunition of various calibres. The statement noted that sections of the defensive perimeters at Goniri and Kukawa were briefly breached during the attacks, while some structures and vehicles within the bases were damaged due to the intensity of the firefight. However, all locations remain firmly under the control of Operation HADIN KAI troops. Ground forces, supported by the Air Component, are currently conducting follow-up operations in the affected areas. “Cordon and search operations are also ongoing in neighbouring communities where some wounded terrorists were discovered to be seeking refuge,” the statement said. The military, however, confirmed that the clashes resulted in casualties among the troops. “Regrettably, the engagements claimed the lives of some brave and gallant soldiers, including an outstanding officer in Kukawa who paid the ultimate price in defence of our nation and the protection of innocent citizens,” the statement added. Operation HADIN KAI assured that troops remain vigilant, motivated and committed to sustaining relentless operations to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure lasting security across the North East.