Nigeria’s military has successfully thwarted a terrorist attack in the northeastern region of Borno State, killing at least seven fighters, including two senior commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). The operation, carried out by troops of Operation HADIN KAI in the town of Wulgo, marked a significant blow to the extremist group’s presence in the region.
According to sources, the terrorists launched a heavily armed assault on the town but were met with a fierce counterattack by Nigerian troops. The ensuing gun battle resulted in the deaths of several insurgents, including two high-ranking ISWAP commanders, identified as Abu Nazir, the Munzir of Juye, and Abu Fatima, the Munzir of Koloram.
Multiple terrorists also sustained severe injuries during the clash. In addition to the human toll, the attackers lost four motorcycles, which were recovered by the military. However, the retreating insurgents managed to set an armoured vehicle ablaze before fleeing the scene.
A military source confirmed the details of the engagement, stating that the terrorists were “decisively engaged” and that the Nigerian troops inflicted “heavy casualties” on the group, including the two senior commanders.
The successful operation marks another milestone in the Nigerian military’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism in the region. Borno State, in particular, has been a hotbed of extremist activity, with ISWAP and other groups frequently launching attacks on civilians and security forces.
The Nigerian military has been conducting a series of operations aimed at rooting out terrorist groups from the region, with varying degrees of success. The recent victory in Wulgo serves as a testament to the military’s capabilities and commitment to securing the country’s volatile northeast.
While the operation’s success is a welcome development, the lingering threat of terrorism in the region remains a pressing concern. As the Nigerian military continues to push back against extremist groups, the need for sustained efforts to address the underlying drivers of terrorism and promote regional stability remains paramount.
