Nigerian Troops Neutralise Senior ISWAP Leaders, Repel Major Attack in Kukawa

Nigerian troops under Operation HADIN KAI have neutralised several high-ranking Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) members, including a prominent member of the group’s Shura Council, during a fierce encounter in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.

The operation, which took place on October 31, 2026, also resulted in the killing of Abul Walid, a prominent ISWAP commander reportedly associated with Ba Shuwa, the group’s overall Wali, alongside two senior Arab fighters.

The military disclosed that the engagement followed a major attack by ISWAP terrorists on troops’ positions in Kukawa. Combined ground forces, supported by air assets from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, successfully repelled the assault and inflicted heavy casualties on the attackers.

Among those reportedly neutralised was Abu Hajara, described by the military as a high-profile member of ISWAP’s Shura Council, a key decision-making body within the terrorist organisation.

Following the encounter, troops recovered several weapons, ammunition and communication devices believed to have been abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

The military described the operation as a significant setback for ISWAP, saying it demonstrated the combat readiness, vigilance and superior firepower of troops operating across the North-East theatre.

The Kukawa engagement comes barely three days after another major military operation in Buni Yadi, where troops reportedly neutralised 55 terrorists, including several senior commanders identified as Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir; Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk; and Commander Gogore.

The Theatre Command said it remained committed to protecting law-abiding citizens and sustaining military operations aimed at eliminating terrorist groups and destroying their camps across the region.

The military also reaffirmed its determination to maintain pressure on insurgents and prevent them from carrying out further attacks on military formations and civilian communities.

The statement was signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, and dated November 1, 2026.