Troops neutralise 438 terrorists in seven months — Army

The Joint Task Force North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), has recorded major progress against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, with 438 insurgents neutralised over the past seven months.

The Theatre Commander, Maj.-Gen. Abdulsalam Abubakar, revealed this on Saturday in Maiduguri during the 2025 Christmas Luncheon organised for troops serving in the region.

Abubakar explained that troops recovered 254 assorted weapons and nearly 300 Starlink communication devices allegedly used by insurgents to coordinate activities and gather intelligence. He added that security forces also rescued 366 civilians — including women and children — from different locations across the North-East.

According to him, 881 fighters from Boko Haram (JAS) and ISWAP, along with their families, have surrendered within the period, reflecting a continued weakening of the groups.

He praised the resilience and professionalism of personnel serving under demanding conditions, noting that the results achieved show the impact of ongoing operations, particularly during the dry season when activities intensify.

Abubakar reaffirmed the commitment of troops to sustain momentum in line with the directives of the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, until peace is restored to the region.

He attributed the gains to improved logistics, enhanced welfare, better firepower, and stronger intelligence coordination, as well as cooperation among the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

The theatre commander also thanked the Federal Government, Defence Headquarters, and the Borno State Government for their continued support, while paying tribute to personnel who lost their lives in the fight against terrorism.

The Christmas luncheon featured prayers and goodwill messages aimed at boosting morale among troops deployed across the Theatre.