Troops repel ISWAP attack on Borno base, kill several terrorists

FILE: Nigerian Army
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters who attempted to overrun a Forward Operating Base in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State.

The attack occurred at about 12:20 am on Monday, August 10, 2026, according to the Army.

The Acting Military Information Officer, Northeast Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Capt. Muhammed Goni, disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday.

Goni said the troops responded with sustained fire, forcing the attackers to withdraw after suffering heavy casualties.

“Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have successfully contained an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists on a Forward Operating Base in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area, Borno State,” the statement said.

“Despite the intensity of the assault, the gallant troops responded with determined and effective fire, forcing the attackers to withdraw after sustaining heavy casualties.”

He said several terrorists were neutralised during the engagement, while troops recovered weapons, ammunition and communication equipment.

According to him, surveillance footage reviewed after the attack also showed several casualties being evacuated by the retreating fighters.

“The recovered items and footage are currently undergoing further operational assessment,” he said.

Soldiers injured

Goni, however, disclosed that some troops sustained injuries after the attackers temporarily breached part of the base’s defences.

He said some military equipment and vehicles were also damaged by rocket-propelled grenade fire during the assault.

“The injured personnel were promptly airlifted and are currently stable and receiving medical attention,” he said.

Following the attack, Goni said troops remained deployed in and around the base and adjoining areas to maintain control of the area, monitor developments and prevent further attempts by the terrorists to attack the position.

He urged residents of Gajiram and surrounding communities to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities.

“Members of the public are also encouraged to promptly report any suspicious movement or activity to the nearest security agencies or call 07084988859 to support intelligence sharing in the ongoing operations,” he added.

The Army said troops remained on high alert in and around Gajiram, while further exploitation of the area and assessment of the terrorists’ casualties and activities were ongoing.

“Headquarters Theatre Command Operation Hadin Kai reassures the public of its unshakable commitment to sustaining pressure on the ISWAP terrorists until lasting peace and stability are fully restored in the North East,” Goni said.