In a major victory for Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts, troops of Operation Hadin Kai have eliminated over 60 terrorists during a joint overnight land and air offensive in Bita, located in the Gwoza axis of southern Borno State.
A military source in Maiduguri confirmed that the operation was launched around 1:09 a.m. on Friday, following an attempted assault by terrorists on a military position.
The swift and coordinated response, involving troops from the 26 Task Force Brigade under Sector 1 and the Nigerian Air Force, successfully repelled the attackers.
According to the source, A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and the Dragon platform were deployed to deliver precision airstrikes that destroyed two enemy gun trucks and neutralised scores of insurgents.
Troops repel ISWAP attack in Borno, recover explosives
“Over 60 terrorists were confirmed killed in the initial engagement.
“Ground forces immediately launched exploitation operations to track down and eliminate fleeing militants,” the source stated.
Further airstrikes reportedly continued after the initial battle, targeting retreating terrorists and destroying additional gun trucks as insurgents fled into nearby forested areas.
Another senior military official, speaking anonymously, described the operation as one of the most decisive blows dealt to ISWAP in recent months.
The official praised the seamless coordination between air and ground units, highlighting the effectiveness of the joint offensive.
Bita has seen a surge in terrorist activity in recent weeks, prompting intensified military operations aimed at restoring security and stability in the region.
- How Kano’s street ‘doctors’ endanger lives through repackaged drugs - January 31, 2026
- Appeal Court upholds death sentences for five Offa robbery convicts - January 31, 2026
- Lady apologises to Priscilla Ojo over false postpartum depression claim - January 31, 2026
