Troops Thwart Coordinated Terrorist Attacks on Military Locations in North-East

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) under Operation HADIN KAI have thwarted multiple coordinated attacks launched by suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on several military positions across the North-East.

The attacks occurred on the night of March 8 and the early hours of March 9, 2026, between 10:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., targeting military locations in Delwa, Goniri, Kukawa, Mainok, and a troop harbour position within the Sambisa Forest.

In a statement issued on Monday by the Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the terrorists were said to have launched the assaults simultaneously from multiple directions in what appeared to be a coordinated attempt to overwhelm troop positions.

Despite the intensity of the attacks and the heavy firepower deployed by the insurgents, troops held their ground and mounted strong defensive responses across the affected locations. Reinforcements and the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI were also deployed, providing timely support during the engagements.

According to the statement, the attackers were eventually forced to withdraw after encountering overwhelming resistance from the troops, leaving behind several casualties.

Troops also recovered weapons and equipment abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, including two PKT machine guns, six AK-47 rifles, eight rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, four mortar bombs, and assorted ammunition of various calibres.

Military authorities disclosed that the intensity of the firefights led to temporary breaches in sections of the defensive perimeters at Goniri and Kukawa. Some structures within the bases as well as a number of vehicles were also damaged during the clashes.

However, the military confirmed that all the affected locations remain firmly under the control of Operation HADIN KAI troops.

The statement added that ground forces, supported by the Air Component, have commenced follow-up exploitation operations in the affected areas. Cordon and search operations are also ongoing in neighbouring communities following reports that some wounded terrorists may have sought refuge there.

The military also confirmed that the engagements resulted in the loss of some soldiers, including an officer in Kukawa who was described as outstanding.

The statement noted that the fallen personnel paid the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation and the protection of innocent citizens.

Operation HADIN KAI assured that its troops remain vigilant, motivated, and committed to sustaining relentless operations aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action and ensuring lasting security across the North-East region.