Troops repel ISWAP attack on army base in Borno

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) of the Nigerian Army have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, Borno State.

The attempted assault, which began late on Friday and spilled into the early hours of Saturday, was thwarted as troops detected and neutralised two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs) deployed by the terrorists in an effort to breach the base.

The early detection and effective defensive fire prevented any penetration of the facility.

Military sources said several terrorists were killed during the exchange, while others were injured and forced to retreat. CCTV footage from the base reportedly showed surviving fighters fleeing the area while evacuating their dead and wounded under sustained fire.

Following the failed attack, troops of Sector 3 OPHK, working alongside the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), carried out a coordinated clearance operation around Mairari at first light on Saturday.

The operation was supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

During the search, troops recovered the bodies of several terrorists and a cache of weapons and logistics abandoned during the retreat.

Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT belts, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication equipment, combat gear, as well as medical and other sustainment supplies.

Although the destruction of the two VBIEDs damaged sections of the road at different points, the FOB remained intact, with no breach recorded.

Troops have since intensified patrols around the area to prevent further attacks and reassure residents of a sustained security presence.

The military said the operation adds to recent successes recorded by OPHK across Borno and Yobe states, where intensified clearance operations have led to the dismantling of terrorist enclaves, disruption of supply routes, and improved security conditions.

Authorities reaffirmed the commitment of troops to defeating terrorist groups and restoring lasting peace in the North East.