Shola Akinyele
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, delivering a major setback to the group’s operations in the Northeast.
The attack, which began late on December 12, 2025, and stretched into the early hours of December 13, was thwarted through coordinated ground and air operations by Nigerian troops.
According to a press statement on Saturday signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (Northeast), Operation HADIN KAI, the terrorists attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). The devices were detected early and neutralised by vigilant troops, preventing any penetration of the FOB.
CCTV footage and field reports confirmed that several terrorists were killed during the engagement, while others sustained serious injuries. Survivors were seen evacuating their dead and wounded as they retreated from the area.
Following the failed assault, troops of OPHK Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team, and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), carried out a comprehensive exploitation of the surrounding areas.
The operation led to the recovery of multiple terrorist casualties and the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during the retreat. Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, medical supplies, and other materials linked to sustained terrorist activities.
Military authorities said the recovery has further degraded ISWAP’s operational capacity and denied the group freedom of movement within the area.
The two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by defensive fire, causing damage to sections of the road leading to the base. However, there was no breach of the FOB, underscoring the preparedness, vigilance, and resilience of the troops.
Troops are currently conducting aggressive patrols in and around Mairari to prevent further attacks and reassure local communities of continued military presence.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to defeating all terrorist elements and restoring lasting peace and stability across the North East, noting that the failed attack highlights the professionalism and operational readiness of Nigerian forces under Operation HADIN KAI.
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