(DDM) – Nigerian Army troops have killed at least 25 terrorists, including top fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), while foiling coordinated attacks in Borno and Adamawa states.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the successful raids were carried out in Karumi, Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, and Kolori, Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State.
Both areas have in recent years been flashpoints of insurgent activity, leaving residents traumatized and communities devastated.
Coordinated operations against ISWAP and JAS factions
Military officials disclosed that the terrorists killed belonged to both ISWAP and Jama’at Ahl as-Sunnah (JAS), the Boko Haram faction loyal to Abubakar Shekau before his death.
The terrorists reportedly attempted coordinated offensives against vulnerable communities but were ambushed by troops acting on credible intelligence.
Fierce gun battles lasted several hours, with soldiers engaging insurgents using ground and aerial support.
Seized items from the terrorists included assault rifles, ammunition, communication devices, and motorcycles used for rapid attacks.
Kidnap victims freed and terror network disrupted
In addition to the killings, troops rescued 16 kidnap victims, among them women and children held captive in makeshift camps. Survivors narrated horrific ordeals, describing days without food, forced marches, and constant fear of execution.
“I thought I would never see my family again,” one rescued victim told DDM in tears. “The soldiers gave us hope and freedom when we had already given up.”
Troops also arrested several key logistics suppliers accused of smuggling fuel, food supplies, and intelligence to insurgents. Officials say cutting off these supply lines is a major blow to the terrorists’ operational capacity.
Communities relieved but call for vigilance
Residents of Karumi and Kolori villages expressed deep gratitude, with many describing the Army’s intervention as timely. “If not for the soldiers, we would have been wiped out,” said a local elder in Madagali.
“Now our people feel safer, but we are still cautious because these terrorists always try to come back.”
Market traders in Konduga also reported that normal activities have resumed, though locals remain fearful of reprisals. Some have called for the permanent deployment of soldiers to the area to prevent future attacks.
Experts highlight significance of operations
Security analysts say the recent operations show that the Nigerian military has improved its intelligence-sharing capacity, coordination, and ground offensive tactics.
According to retired Brigadier-General Oladipo Adebayo, the raids “mark a turning point in the renewed counter-terrorism push” but he warned that “terror groups have a history of regrouping quickly if pressure is not sustained.”
He stressed the need for community policing, intelligence gathering, and cross-border cooperation with Chad, Niger, and Cameroon, given that insurgents often retreat to hideouts in the Lake Chad Basin after clashes.
Broader background of Nigeria’s insurgency war
Nigeria has battled insurgency for over 14 years, with Boko Haram and ISWAP responsible for over 40,000 deaths and the displacement of more than 2 million people.
Despite repeated government claims of victory, attacks have persisted, particularly in the North-East.
In recent years, ISWAP has overtaken Boko Haram in strength, targeting both civilians and security forces, while also collecting illegal taxes in captured territories. JAS, though weakened, continues to launch sporadic attacks in villages.
The Nigerian Army, under Operation Hadin Kai, has intensified offensives, but critics say insufficient funding, low morale, and inadequate equipment have hindered lasting victory.
Army reaffirms commitment
Military authorities reaffirmed their commitment to protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and eliminating insurgency. “These operations prove that terrorists will not find safe havens in our land,” a spokesperson said.
The rescued victims have been taken for medical care and psychological counseling before being reunited with their families. Meanwhile, seized weapons and supplies are being examined for intelligence value.
Officials insist that the recent success should not make communities complacent, urging locals to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
Call for sustained vigilance
Despite widespread relief, observers say the battle against terrorism remains far from over.
The resilience of insurgent groups and the porous nature of Nigeria’s northern borders continue to pose significant challenges.
Analysts argue that victory will only be sustainable if military operations are complemented by development programs, community resilience, and rehabilitation of repentant fighters.
For now, the daring operations in Borno and Adamawa have renewed hope among residents that peace is still possible in Nigeria’s troubled North-East.
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