Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have successfully foiled coordinated attacks by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Mayanti, Gajigana and Gajiram, reaffirming their operational resilience and battlefield superiority across Sector 2.

This was confirmed in a press release signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI on Sunday.

The failed assaults, which occurred between the late hours of 28 February and the early hours of 1 March 2026, reflect the mounting pressure on terrorist elements as sustained offensive operations continue to target their strongholds, logistics networks and leadership structures.

While troops maintained full control of their position in Gajigana after repelling the attack, the encounters at Mayanti and Gajiram led to significant terrorist casualties and the recovery of substantial combat equipment.

At approximately 2300 hours on 28 February 2026, FOB Mayanti came under heavy attack by a large number of terrorists. Despite intense enemy fire, troops stood their ground as reinforcements navigated ambushes and improvised explosive device (IED) threats to reinforce the position. After the engagement, five terrorist bodies were confirmed, while troops recovered three PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, two RPG-7 tubes, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, three RPG bombs and large quantities of 7.62mm ammunition. Blood trails along the withdrawal routes suggested additional enemy casualties. Regrettably, one officer paid the supreme sacrifice during the encounter.

Similarly, at about 0115 hours on 1 March 2026, terrorists armed with PKT guns, rocket-propelled grenades and armed drones attacked FOB Gajiram. The assault was decisively repelled by determined troops, supported by air components. Three terrorist bodies were recovered along their escape route. Items recovered include four AK-47 rifles, five anti-tank bombs, three locally fabricated mortar bombs, one armed drone, six fully loaded 7.62mm NATO magazines, barbed wire cutters, specialised ammunition and other materials abandoned in flight. One wounded soldier was airlifted by a Nigerian Army Aviation helicopter for advanced medical attention and is currently receiving treatment.

In related offensive operations within Sector 2, troops engaged terrorists at Kayawa Village, forcing them to flee and abandon a tricycle, three motorcycles and five bicycles. Identified life-support structures were destroyed, while two confessed ISWAP logistics suppliers were arrested. Troops also recovered drugs and medical supplies believed to have been used in treating wounded terrorists.

Additionally, during an ambush operation around Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba Local Government Area, troops neutralised two terrorists and recovered two AK-47 rifles, four AK-47 magazines, a bicycle and other sundry items.

All affected locations remain firmly under the control of troops. The scale of recoveries and confirmed enemy losses further highlights the degrading combat capability of ISWAP elements in the North East theatre.

The Nigeria Police Force in Ebonyi State has confirmed the abduction of Mr. Francis Igwe, father of former Deputy Governor of the state, Kelechi Igwe.

Mr. Igwe was reportedly kidnapped on Sunday morning while on his way to church in Ndufu-Alike community, Ikwo Local Government Area.

Eyewitnesses said armed men riding on a motorcycle intercepted his vehicle, forcibly pulled him out, and whisked him away to an undisclosed location. The attack is said to have occurred within a short distance from his residence, throwing the quiet community into panic.

The Chairman of Ikwo Local Government Area, Hon. Sunday Nwankwo, confirmed the incident, stating that local authorities are working closely with security agencies to secure the victim’s release.

Also confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, SP Joshua Ukandu, said tactical operatives have been deployed to track down the abductors. He assured residents that intensified efforts are underway to ensure the safe rescue of the victim and to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The incident has heightened concerns over security in parts of the state, as residents call for increased surveillance and patrols to curb rising cases of abduction.

The Honourable Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Gwabin Musa (rtd.) OFR, has assured the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association of his continued support for sporting activities. The assurance comes following his conferment with the prestigious and globally recognized award of ‘Ambassador of Fair Play’ by the Association.

The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, Mr Richard Pheelangwa, received the award on behalf of the Honourable Minister during the Association’s courtesy visit to the Ministry. Mr Pheelangwa, alongside some principal staff of the ministry, testified that Gen. Musa is a sports lover and a firm believer in the enormous benefits of sports to national peace and unity. He noted that the Minister enjoys and participates in various sporting activities both indoors and outdoors, including golf. “He will be glad to have the award and will always support sports activities,” Mr Pheelangwa added.

Speaking earlier, the All Federal Capital Territory Sports Association, led by its Board of Trustee Chairman and former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Yakubu Dogara, stated that the purpose of the visit was to collaborate with the Ministry. The goal, he explained, is to explore ways of elevating sports, beginning with the Federal Capital Territory, to a level that will yield the desired results for the country, similar to what is seen in other developed economies. In a statement, Rt. Hon Yakubu Dogara said the Association intends to promote sports to help transform the economic independence of citizens, empower youths, and curtail restiveness. This, he added, will help reduce criminality to its barest minimum, thereby paving the way for peace in the country.

Representatives from various sports including golf, soft/baseball, gymnastics, and basketball were present at the event. They spoke on their desire to see barracks sporting facilities revived once again, noting that most talents are harnessed from the barracks, which provide an organized setting fit for talent hunts.

Also present at the event were the Permanent Secretary, Special Duties, Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr Maduka, and staff of the Ministry. The Director of Information and Public Relations confirmed through the Acting Director, Enderline Chukwu, that the event marks a significant step towards collaborative efforts in advancing sports development in the nation. Mr Pheelangwa reiterated the Ministry’s commitment to this cause. The event concluded with a renewed sense of purpose among the sports bodies and the Ministry, with Mr Pheelangwa emphasizing the importance of such partnerships for national development.