Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have killed four Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) leaders, including two Arab fighters, alongside several other terrorists during an operation in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The Nigerian Army said the operation took place on October 31, 2026, after ISWAP fighters launched a major attack on military positions in the area. Joint Task Force troops responded using ground forces and air support.
The acting Military Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Mohammed Goni, disclosed the development in a statement on Sunday, describing the operation as a significant blow to ISWAP’s leadership and operational capacity.
Goni identified two of the slain leaders as Abu Hajara, a prominent member of the group’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, ISWAP’s overall Wali. The other two were described as high-ranking Arab fighters.
He added that troops recovered numerous weapons, ammunition and communication devices following the engagement. According to the military, the operation demonstrated the troops’ readiness and ability to sustain pressure on terrorist groups operating in the region.
The Kukawa encounter occurred barely three days after another military operation in Buni Yadi, where troops reportedly killed 55 terrorists. Those killed included key commanders Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir, Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk and Commander Gogore.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and continuing operations against terrorist groups in the North-East. It said the military would sustain efforts to destroy terrorist camps and weaken their operations across the region.
