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Military Offensive in North-East: 31 Terrorists Killed, Hostages Rescued as Troops Press the Fight
Nigeria’s military has intensified its counter‑terrorism campaign in the North‑East with a series of decisive strikes that have left at least 31 terrorists dead and several hostages freed between April 17 and 23, 2026. The operations, conducted under the umbrella of Operation HADIN KAI, signal a renewed push by ground and air forces to dismantle insurgent networks in Borno and Yobe states.
Coordinated Strikes Yield Results
Major‑General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed that troops recorded their most significant engagement at Kukareta, along the Maiduguri–Damaturu road in Yobe State, where 21 insurgents were neutralised during a foiled attack. In another operation, nine captives who escaped from the Mandara Mountains were secured by government forces, despite repeated attempts by terrorists to recapture them. Additionally, soldiers intercepted a suspected courier attempting to supply fuel disguised as sachet water to terrorist camps — a critical disruption of logistics.
The Nigerian Air Force provided close air support, striking hideouts in the Southern Tumbuns area of Borno State. Beyond the North‑East, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded successes in Kaduna and Zamfara states, neutralising bandits, destroying camps, and freeing kidnap victims.
Leadership Challenges and a Fragile Reality
Chief of Defence Staff General Olufemi Oluyede praised the troops’ resilience, but former Army Chief Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai (retd.) urged caution. “The terrorists and bandits are wounded but still dangerous. This is exactly the time to press harder,” he said. The recent elimination of a high‑ranking ISWAP Shura member, Abu Jarir, in the Babangida‑Dapchi axis underscores the pressure on militant networks. Nevertheless, the larger security picture remains grim, including the unresolved abduction of over 400 women and children in Ngoshe earlier this year.
A Hard‑Won Momentum
Each successful operation chips away at insurgent capabilities while offering hope to families awaiting the return of loved ones. The recent gains demonstrate that sustained joint operations can deliver results, even as the military confronts an enemy that adapts quickly. The call to “press harder” resonates: the fight is far from over, but the direction is unmistakable.
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