Troops from the Joint Task Force (North East), part of Operation HADIN KAI, successfully repelled a major attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Kukawa, Borno State, killing several terrorists, including senior leaders.
The clash occurred on 31 October 2026, as reported by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, on social media platform X.
Ground forces, supported by air operations, managed to defeat the large-scale ISWAP assault. Among those killed were Abu Hajara, a key member of ISWAP’s Shura Council; Abul Walid, a prominent commander and associate of ISWAP leader Ba Shuwa; and two high-ranking Arab fighters.
Following the confrontation, troops seized numerous weapons, ammunition, and communication devices.
This incident followed a previous engagement in Buni Yadi three days earlier, where 55 terrorists were neutralised, including notable commanders such as Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, known as Munzir, and Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk.
The Theatre Command highlighted the successful defence as a demonstration of the troops’ combat readiness and effective firepower. They reiterated their commitment to safeguarding citizens and intensifying operations aimed at dismantling terrorist activities in the region.
The deaths of senior ISWAP commanders in Kukawa highlight the ongoing military campaign against insurgents in Nigeria’s North-East, particularly around the Lake Chad Basin, where ISWAP continues to pose a significant security threat despite previous military efforts.
