Troops repel ISWAP attacks on Borno bases, Army major killed

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai, have repelled coordinated attacks by suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Forward Operating Bases (FOBs) in Mayanti, Gajigana and Gajiram in Borno State.

The attacks, which occurred between February 28 and March 1, 2026, were successfully foiled, with troops retaining full control of all positions.

In a statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Lt Col Sani Uba, the military said five terrorists were killed in Mayanti, three in Gajiram and two during the Gajigana attack.

According to the statement, FOB Mayanti came under heavy assault on February 28. Despite intense enemy fire, troops held their ground while reinforcements navigated ambushes and improvised explosive device (IED) threats to dislodge the attackers. Five bodies were recovered at the scene, alongside significant combat equipment.

Items recovered included three PKT automatic anti-aircraft guns, two RPG-7 tubes, four AK-47 rifles, two FN rifles, three RPG bombs and quantities of 7.62mm ammunition. Blood trails at the scene indicated additional casualties among the fleeing insurgents.

However, the military confirmed that an officer was killed during the encounter.

At about 1:15 a.m. on March 1, terrorists reportedly attacked FOB Gajiram using PKT guns, rocket-propelled grenades and armed drones. The troops, supported by air assets, repelled the assault. Three bodies were recovered along the withdrawal route, in addition to four AK-47 rifles, anti-tank bombs, locally fabricated mortar bombs, one armed drone and other items. A wounded soldier was airlifted by a Nigerian Army Aviation helicopter for advanced medical care.

The attack on Gajigana was also thwarted, with troops maintaining firm control of the base.

In separate operations under Sector 2, troops engaged suspected terrorists at Kayawa Village, forcing them to flee and abandon a tricycle, three motorcycles and five bicycles. Two suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers were arrested, while drugs and medical supplies meant for treating wounded fighters were recovered.

Additionally, during an ambush around Bulturam Corner and Dadingel in Gujba Local Government Area, troops neutralised two terrorists and recovered weapons and other items.

The military said all affected locations remain under its control, noting that sustained offensives have continued to degrade the combat capacity of ISWAP elements operating in the North East.