₦airaland Forum

🪖Federal Government asked States of the Federation to recruit Forest Guards through the office of National Security Adviser (ONSA) so they can be properly Armed and regulated, Some states including those in the South West have refused to do so.

WE NEED TO HOLD THE STATE GOVERNORS IN THEIR JUGULAR
© @Pressman2040

Several ISIS Trainers from Iraq Among 175 Terrorists Killed in Joint Nigeria-US Airstrikes

By: Zagazola Makama

Several foreign ISIS trainers from Iraq were among 175 terrorists eliminated during ongoing joint counter-insurgency operations conducted in the joint United States Africa Command and Nigeria’s military airstrikes in North-East Nigeria.

Sources who disclosed this on Tuesday described the coordinated offensives as a major breakthrough against the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and allied terrorist networks operating within the Lake Chad region.

According to the sources, the strikes, which commenced a few days ago, targeted terrorist camps, logistics hubs, weapons caches, checkpoints and financial networks used to sustain insurgent operations across parts of Borno and surrounding areas.

The authorities said intelligence assessments confirmed that several foreign ISIS operatives and trainers linked to Iraq-based extremist networks were neutralised alongside scores of local fighters during the precision strikes.

On ground assessment indicated that several foreign fighters also met their waterloo. The fighters were in charge of training and responsible for the ISWAP drone command.

Sources said that the foreign trainers were planing to leave within two days before the strikes that eliminated several of them.

Military had previously announced the killing of Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, aka Abbor Mainok described by the military as one of the most significant ISIS operatives globally and a key figure in the group’s international terror coordination structure.

The military said Al-Minuki played central roles in terrorist financing, recruitment, logistics coordination and attack planning linked to ISIS operations targeting Nigeria and other countries.

Other senior terrorist figures reportedly eliminated included Abd-al Wahhab, said to be responsible for coordinating attacks and propaganda activities for ISWAP, Abu Musa al-Mangawi, a senior operational commander, and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, identified as a senior media production manager and close associate of Al-Minuki.

Military authorities stated that the successful operations had significantly disrupted ISIS leadership structures, operational coordination and external attack capabilities within the region.

The Armed Forces of Nigeria further reiterated their commitment to sustaining joint operations with international partners to eliminate terrorist threats and restore lasting peace and stability in the North-East.

The military high command added that efforts to track and neutralise fleeing insurgents and dismantle remaining terrorist enclaves were ongoing.

TemporaryHansel:
Mr publicity secretary of the Nigerian military, Incase you're not hearing it from people around you.

Only fools still hold the Nigerian military in any regard. The Nigerian military is an unprofessional and very useless force.

If they were handling terrorists and bandits with the same zeal they use when dealing with defenceless citizens they're supposed to be protecting, maybe the country would've been safer.

TROOPS THWART TERRORIST ATTACK, ARREST SUSPECTS, RESCUE VICTIMS IN SUSTAINED NORTH EAST OPERATIONS

Troops of the Joint Task Force ( North East) , Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have recorded significant operational successes across the theatre, including the thwarting of a major terrorist attack, arrest of suspected collaborators, rescue of kidnapped victims, and surrender of terrorist associates. In a major development, troops of OPHK deployed at Forward Operating Base (FOB) Gajibo successfully thwarted a coordinated attack by a large number of suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists mounted on motorcycles and armed with support weapons.

The terrorists were detected as they advanced towards the town from multiple directions. Troops responded swiftly with heavy firepower, including mortar engagements, forcing the attackers to withdraw in disarray. Subsequent exploitation led to the recovery of ammunition and combat accessories. No casualties were recorded among troops. In related operations, troops of OPHK in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operatives arrested two suspected Boko Haram collaborators in Gubio town. The suspects, both cattle rearers, are currently in custody and undergoing further investigation.

Similarly, troops, acting on credible intelligence obtained from a surrendered terrorist associate, arrested a suspected logistics supplier identified as Umar Ahmadu in Gwoza. The suspect reportedly confessed to supplying items to terrorists on multiple occasions and is currently under interrogation. Earlier, a 17-year-old family member of a terrorist surrendered to troops along the Gwoza–Limankara axis after escaping from a terrorist enclave in the Mandara Mountains. Preliminary findings indicate that sustained military pressure and lack of basic necessities within the enclave contributed to his decision to surrender. Further demonstrating operational effectiveness, troops of OPHK intercepted and rescued two male victims who had been kidnapped from Mafa town. The victims, who escaped from captivity under poor visibility conditions, have been handed over for further medical evaluation and necessary action.

These coordinated operations highlight the sustained pressure being mounted on terrorist elements, targeting their mobility, logistics networks, and support structures. It is important to state that troops continue to maintain high vigilance and an aggressive operational posture to forestall any threat within the theatre of OPHK. The Joint Task Force reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to sustaining ongoing operations aimed at defeating terrorism and restoring lasting security, peace and economic stability across the North East region.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
19 May, 2026

For months there were reports of illegal miners in the Old Oyo National Park and the danger their activities posed to the overall security and safety of Oyo State, but the authorities largely looked away because some individuals were profiting from the illicit trade. It was only a question of when the bandits will strike not if since there's a nexus between illegal mining and insecurity.
My thoughts and prayers are with the victims of the attacks

PRESS RELEASE

UPDATE ON NIGERIA- UNITED STATES JOINT STRIKES ON ISIS: FORCES DELIVER DEVASTATING BLOW, ELIMINATE 175 TERRORISTS

The Defence Headquarters wishes to announce major successes in continuing counterterrorism operations in close coordination with United States Africa Command against ISIS terrorists in North East Nigeria.

It will be recalled that the joint strikes started a few days ago. As of 19 May 2026, assessments indicate that 175 ISIS terrorists have been eliminated from the battlefield.

The joint strikes have resulted in the destruction of ISIS checkpoints, weapons caches, logistical hubs, military equipment and financial networks used to sustain terrorist operations.

The operations have also resulted in the elimination of several senior ISIS leaders, including Abu-Bilal al-Minuki, one of the most significant ISIS operatives in the world.

Al-Minuki played a central role in ISIS external operations, coordinating terrorist financing, recruitment, logistics and attack planning targeting Nigerians and innocent civilians around the world. His death severely disrupts ISIS command, operational coordination and external attack networks.

Other terrorist figures eliminated include Abd-al Wahhab, ISWAP senior leader responsible for coordinating attacks and distributing propaganda, Abu Musa al-Mangawi, ISWAP senior member and Abu al-Muthanna al-Muhajir, ISWAP senior media production team manager and close confidant to al-Minuki.

The joint strikes have further reinforced what the Armed Forces of Nigeria have consistently done over the years - hunt down and kill terrorists anywhere they are in Nigeria.

The joint operations will continue to hunt down and destroy those who threaten our nation and regional stability.

SAMAILA UBA
Major General
Director Defence Information
19 May 2026

NNPC Probe: EFCC Secures Final Forfeiture of Private Jet

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, on Monday, May 18, 2026, secured a final forfeiture order of a Hawker private Jet 125 before Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court, Maitama, Abuja over its link to fraud, corruption and money laundering regarding the Maiduguri Emergency Power Project, MEPP.

The aircraft, with model number 800XP, serial number 258553 and registration number 5N-AMK, was forfeited following an application by the EFCC.

Ruling on the application, Justice Nwite held that no sufficient cause was shown by Valiente Jet Limited, a company owned by Abdulsalam Mustapha Kachallah, an interested party, why the aircraft should not be finally forfeited to the Federal Government.

“The interested party has not demonstrated with evidence the lawful origin of the funds used to purchase the aircraft,” the judge held, stressing that the disguised manner through which the aircraft was acquired using the name of a Bureau De Change operator who denied knowledge of the nature of the transaction further lent credence to the unlawfulness of the entire transaction.

The court had earlier granted an interim forfeiture order on November 13, 2025 and directed the Commission to publish the order in a national newspaper for interested parties to show cause why the aircraft should not be permanently forfeited.

Following the publication, a company, Valiente Limited whose owner is Alhaji Abdulsalam Mustapha Kachallah filed affidavits to show cause. The application for final forfeiture was supported by an affidavit deposed to by Aminu Abdullahi, an investigator with the EFCC.

According to the investigator, the Commission received intelligence bordering on conspiracy, obtaining money by false pretence and money laundering involving Kachallah.

Investigation revealed that sometime in 2021, the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, NNPCL, awarded contracts under the Maiduguri Emergency Power Project valued at $114,148,155 (One Hundred and Fourteen Million, One Hundred Forty Eight Thousand, One Hundred and Fifty Five Dollars) and ₦23,172,969,904, (Twenty Three Billion, One Hundred and Seventy Two Million, Nine Hundred and Sixty Nine Thousand. Nine Hundred and Four Naira) .

Kachallah, who was then Chairman of the Borno State Rural Electrification Board and a member of the project’s steering committee, used his position and relationship with officials of the NNPCL to engage in illicit dealings connected to the project.

Investigation showed that Kachallah entered into unlawful agreements with China Machinery Engineering Company, CMEC, through companies in which he had substantial interest, and sold privileged bidding information relating to the project in exchange for financial inducements.

The investigation further showed that CMEC was subsequently awarded three contracts under the project valued at $52,120,172 (Fifty Two Million One Hundred and Twenty Thousand, One Hundred and Seventy Two Dollars) and ₦20,213,956,953 (Twenty Billion, Two Hundred and Thirteen Million, Nine Hundred and Fifty Six Thousand, Nine Hundred and Fifty Three Naira).

Part of the contract funds was routed through Afuwa Integrated Services Limited, a Bureau De Change operator, under the false claim that the company was subcontracted by CMEC.

CMEC transferred the sum of $2,070,000 (Two Million, Seventy Thousand Dollars) into the Stanbic IBTC Bank account of Afuwa Integrated Services Limited on Kachallah’s instruction.

Investigation further revealed that forged invoices were prepared in the name of Afuwa Integrated Services Limited to falsely portray that legitimate services had been rendered to CMEC.

The funds were thereafter transferred to a Brazilian account for the purchase of the aircraft from a Brazilian company.

Kachallah fraudulently used Afuwa Integrated Services Limited to acquire the aircraft before forging documents to transfer ownership to Valiente Jet Limited, a company linked to him. Although Kachallah opposed the application, claiming that payments made into CMEC through the bank account of Afunwa Integrated Services was based on contract his company entered into with CMEC to facilitate the award of contract to the latter on the MEPP as well to provide consultancy services to the latter.

The matter was argued by parties on April 30, 2026. The EFCC which was represented by Iheanacho Ekele SAN, and O.S. Ujam, further argued that the action of Kachalla violated the provisions of Sections 8, 10, and 53 of the ICPC Act as well as the Money Laundering and Prohibition Act and that the evidence showed that Kachallah was a public officer appointed by the Borno State Government.

Kachallah was represented by M.E. Oru, SAN, and maintained that Kachalla was different from his companies that entered into the agreements and that some of the exhibits attached to the EFCC's affidavit were not admissible. The submission was quickly rebutted by Iheanacho who cited several judicial authorities to show that in cases of fraud or illegality, the law allows the veil of incorporation to be lifted to show persons behind the companies. He relied on the case of Oyebanji vs State.

He also stated that the documents attached to the affidavit need not be further certified by the authorities of Aondoakaa vs Obot & Anor, Musa vs Jika.


In a well considered judgment and being satisfied with the evidence placed before it, Justice Nwite granted the final forfeiture of the aircraft to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

‼️Agreement complete for Xabi Alonso to become Chelsea manager. The Spaniard visited London early last week and accepted opportunity; 4yr contract now finalised - announcement imminent.

~
@David_Ornstein

OPERATION HADIN KAI AND US PARTNERS NEUTRALISE ISIS GLOBAL SECOND-IN-COMMAND ABU-BILAL AL-MINUKI AND SEVERAL TERRORIST COMMANDERS IN PRECISION AIR-LAND OPERATIONS AT METELE

In a landmark joint counter-terrorism operation of historic significance, troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in close coordination with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), executed a meticulously planned and highly complex precision air-land operation that resulted in the neutralisation of Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, the Islamic State's (ISIS) second-in-command globally and the most senior ISWAP commander operating in the Lake Chad Basin and Sahel region alongside several of his key lieutenants and multiple combatants. Al-Minuki, also known as Abu Bakr ibn Muhammad ibn Ali al-Mainuki, was a US-designated Specially Designated Global Terrorist (SDGT), designated by the US Department of State on 8 June 2023 under Executive Order 13224 for his role as a leading official within ISIS's General Directorate of Provinces, through which he channelled international funding and operational guidance to terror cells across the Sahel and the Lake Chad Islands in Northern Borno. His elimination represents the single most consequential counter-terrorism outcome in the North East Theatre since the inception of Operation HADIN KAI.

The operation, which commenced at approximately 0001 hours and concluded at about 0400 hours today, Saturday 16 May 2026, was the culmination of a protracted joint intelligence effort involving legal intercept operations and sustained reconnaissance that achieved full target development and fidelity. Following confirmed intelligence that Al-Minuki and his international terrorist cell had established a concealed and fortified enclave at Metele in Borno State within Sector 3 OPHK, the US partners in conjunction with OPHK conducted precision air - ground operations on the confirmed location while Special Forces were deployed to provide security and deny escape routes as well as to extract any of the Teams or air platforms in distress.

The operation involved several air platforms in a synchronised air-land configuration that left the terrorists with no avenue of escape. The operation was executed following authorisation from the Military High Command, underscoring the highest levels of institutional coordination and strategic decision-making that underpinned the success of this mission.

The operation was executed with zero casualties or loss of assets, a testament to the exceptional planning, superior tactical execution and the deepening synergy between Nigerian and US military forces in the global fight against terrorism. Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki has been confirmed neutralised alongside several of his lieutenants and multiple combatants.

Battle Damage Assessment is ongoing, while troops are currently conducting aggressive follow-on exploitation operations to decimate identified splinter cells and prevent any attempt at reconstitution. The President of the United States, Donald J. Trump, acknowledged the success of the operation and publicly commended the partnership with the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

This decisive operation reaffirms OPHK's position as the foremost counter-terrorism formation in sub-Saharan Africa and sends an unequivocal message that terrorists will find neither sanctuary nor safety within the North East Theatre.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East)
Operation HADIN KAI
16 May 2026

Troops Intercept Over 400 Starlink Devices Used by Terrorists in North-East — Sector 2 Commander

By: Zagazola Makama

The Commander of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, Brig.-Gen. Beyidi Martins, says troops have intercepted and seized more than 400 Starlink communication devices allegedly used by Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists across the North-East theatre.

Martins disclosed this while briefing defence correspondents on ongoing strangulation and intelligence-driven operations aimed at dismantling terrorist logistics and communication networks within the sector’s area of responsibility.

He said the recovered Starlink terminals, linked to Elon Musk’s satellite internet service, were intercepted during sustained operations across Sambisa Forest, the Timbuktu Triangle and other terrorist enclaves in the North-East.

According to him, the seizures formed part of broader efforts by troops to disrupt the logistics lifelines sustaining terrorist activities in the region.

“The lifeblood of terrorist activities is logistics resupply, and we are deliberately denying them freedom to move supplies, communication equipment, fuel and other operational items across the theatre,” he said.

The commander explained that the asymmetric nature of the insurgency had enabled terrorists to rely heavily on civilian supply chains and collaborators for movement of food, fuel, drugs, communication gadgets and motorcycle spare parts into remote hideouts.

He acknowledged that some members of the civilian population were voluntarily collaborating with terrorists, while others acted under coercion and intimidation.

“There is a high level of collusion between some members of the civil populace and the terrorists. Some do it willingly, while others are forced through threats and coercion,” Martins stated.

He disclosed that troops had successfully infiltrated several transport and logistics networks used by insurgents through intelligence operations targeting transporters, traders and supply syndicates operating across the region.

According to him, troops have arrested hundreds of logistics suppliers, couriers and collaborators linked to terrorist resupply operations.

“It will interest you to know that arrests are made on a daily basis. So far, we have disrupted over 400 logistics-related cases and networks supporting terrorist operations,” he said.

The commander added that troops had intercepted consignments of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), drugs, medical supplies, food items and spare parts suspected to be destined for terrorist camps.

He noted that the seizures were made along major movement corridors stretching from Kano through Nguru and other routes leading into the Timbuktu Triangle, Sambisa Forest and adjoining enclaves.

Martins further revealed that local livestock markets had also been exploited by insurgents to dispose of rustled animals and generate operational funds.

To counter the trend, he said security forces, local authorities and market stakeholders had introduced livestock verification measures requiring proper identification of ownership before animals could be sold.

“If animals are not properly identified, they will not be sold. Through that arrangement, we are tracking and disrupting their sources of financing,” he said.

The commander stated that the ongoing strangulation operations had significantly weakened terrorist logistics chains and reduced their operational flexibility across the sector.

He also disclosed that sustained military offensives and intelligence-driven operations had led to the surrender of several terrorists and members of their families within the area of responsibility.

According to him,continuous pressure from troops had denied insurgents freedom of movement and disrupted their ability to sustain attacks on communities and security formations.

Martins reaffirmed the commitment of sector 2 to intensifying offensive operations, intercepting terrorist supply routes and dismantling communication networks.

You sit in the comfort of your home, phone in hand, insulated from the chaos that shapes this country. And with a few taps, you pour insults on men and women who have held rifles in places you wouldn’t dare visit with a convoy. You mock their struggles for a few likes, a little attention as if their blood is currency for your clout.

But the truth is heavy, and you don’t carry it. You’ve never felt the earth shake under a bomb. You’ve never held a dying comrade’s hand and watched the light fade. You’ve never explained to a child why their father is not coming back.

Our soldiers endure all of that. Daily. Quietly. And many pay the ultimate price just to keep Nigeria standing.

So when you sit behind your screen, think: who would you run to when the walls fall? Who would stand between your family and the fire?

Not you. You’d be the first to cry out for help.

Our troops deserve more than your cheap commentary. They deserve respect. They deserve gratitude. They deserve to be honored not insulted.

To every soldier who has bled, who has served, who has sacrificed:

WE SEE YOU
WE THANK YOU
WE STAND WITH YOU
© @Pressman2040

TROOPS OF 12 BRIGADE NEUTRALIZE TERRORIST DURING AMBUSH OPERATION IN KOGI

Troops of 12 Brigade Nigerian Army have recorded another operational success against terrorists operating within Kogi State following a well coordinated ambush along Bandit crossing points within the Adankolo Forest Reserve in Lokoja Local Government Area.

Acting on credible intelligence on the movement of suspected terrorists within the general area, troops from 12 Brigade Quick Response Group laid in wait at a suspected crossing point in the early hours of Sunday 10 May 2026. During the operation, the troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them in a firefight, neutralizing one terrorist while others fled with gunshot wounds into the surrounding bush.

Following the encounter, troops recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, one fabricated pistol, 6 magazines and 145 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition. Other items recovered include one camouflage bandolier, one Honda motorcycle, Diclofenac medication, 3 mobile phones, 3 power banks and the sum of Sixty-Two Thousand, Nine Hundred Naira (₦62,900.00).

The successful operation is part of ongoing efforts by 12 Brigade Nigerian Army under Operation TIGER PAW II to deny terrorists freedom of action and enhance security along major routes and communities within Kogi State and adjoining areas. Troops are currently exploiting the general area to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.

HASSAN ABDULLAHI
Lieutenant
Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
12 Brigade Nigerian Army
10 May 2026

Ibn Qudamah (رحمه الله) said:

“If you know the meaning of a bad end, you must beware of the means that lead to it and prepare yourself. Woe to you if you procrastinate in such preparation, for life is short and your soul may be taken at any moment. A person dies upon the way he lived and will be resurrected upon the state in which he died.”

-Purification of the Soul, Dār as-Sunnah Publications, p. 115.

Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi

By Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims during a routine patrol in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.

Security sources said the operation took place at about 7:01 p.m. on April 30 when troops of 12 Brigade deployed at Okoloke Patrol Base intercepted suspected kidnappers at Ejiba community.

The sources disclosed that the troops acted swiftly, forcing the suspects to abandon their victims.

According to the sources, the two kidnapped persons were successfully rescued and later reunited with their families.

They added that security patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents

popizaino:
PSG Nuno Mendez isn't better tha Joreel Hato the former is just fortunate and lucky to be in a better team coached by a better coach.

We really need to fine a good coach for this bunch of players here.

No be everything wey u think u go talk for outside. A limping Nuno Mendez is better than a fully fit Hato

Troops arrest three suspected terrorist collaborators in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have arrested three suspected collaborators of Boko Haram/ISWAP in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno.

Security sources said the suspects were apprehended on April 13 by operatives of Sector 3 Military Intelligence Brigade in collaboration with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) in Abari general area.

The suspects were identified as Falmata Abukar, 43; Halima Audu, 35; and Mairo Abba, 17.

According to the sources, the suspects were intercepted while attempting to move from Abari to Mararaba village in Kukawa Local Government Area.

Items recovered from them include 12 pairs of terrorist uniform materials, 176 bottles of herbicide, 22 wrappers, 24 assorted children’s clothes, a mosquito net, a mat, and the sum of N15,500.

The sources said the items were suspected to be logistics supplies intended for insurgents operating within the Lake Chad axis.

The suspects are currently in military custody and undergoing preliminary investigation to determine the extent of their involvement and possible links to terrorist networks.

Troops repel attack in Sokoto

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 8 Division have repelled an attack by suspected terrorists in Garin Hillo Village, Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

Security sources said the incident occurred in the early hours of April 17, when troops deployed at a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Gatawa responded to reports of terrorist activities in the area.

On arrival, the troops made contact with the assailants and engaged them in a firefight, forcing the attackers to retreat.

Further inquiry revealed that about 30 armed terrorists had stormed the village on foot, firing sporadically and causing panic among residents.

As a result of the attack, six civilians sustained gunshot wounds.

The injured victims were evacuated to the General Hospital in Sabon Birni for medical attention.

Troops have continued to dominate the general area to prevent further attacks and ensure the safety of residents.

Zagazola Fact-Check: Viral claim of ISWAP blocking Maiduguri–Damaturu highway FALSE

…restriction of movement was a standard tactical measure…

By Zagazola Makama

Claims circulating online that suspected ISWAP or Boko Haram fighters blocked the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway in protest over alleged airstrikes have been found to be false, following verification from multiple security sources.

The viral video, which showed halted vehicles and armed personnel on the highway, had sparked concerns that insurgents had taken control of sections of the critical road linking Borno and Yobe states.

However, findings indicate that the temporary restriction of movement carried out by troops of 29 Brigade as part of an ongoing security operation in the Benisheikh axis.

A senior military source clarified that the road closure occurred in the early hours of Thursday and was aimed at preventing suspected terrorists from infiltrating Benisheikh town.

Further checks revealed that the operation was part of broader counter-insurgency efforts in the Kaga Local Government Area, where intelligence had earlier indicated possible movements of insurgents.

In the same vain, Air components of Operation HADIN KAI also conducted surveillance missions in the area. At about 1:43 a.m. on April 15, an armed reconnaissance patrol by a military scanned a 5 to 10-kilometre radius around Benisheikh but observed no insurgent activity.

Similarly, at about 12:04 a.m. on April 16, another aerial patrol covered key segments of the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, including Auno, Maniok, Benisheikh, Ngamdu and Maiduguri metropolis, with no hostile activity recorded.

Security officials noted that the brief restriction of movement was a standard tactical measure to allow troops conduct clearance operations without interference or risk to civilians.

They urged the public to disregard misleading narratives suggesting that insurgents had blocked or taken over the highway, adding that such claims could cause unnecessary panic.

The Maiduguri–Damaturu road remains a strategic corridor in the North-East and is routinely secured through coordinated ground and air operations to ensure the safety of commuters and prevent insurgent attacks.

The foreign ministers of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the Arab Republic of Egypt, the Federal Republic of Somalia, the Republic of the Sudan, the State of Libya, the People's Republic of Bangladesh, the People's Democratic Republic of Algeria, the State of Palestine, the Republic of Turkey, and the Republic of Indonesia strongly condemn Israel's announcement of the appointment of a diplomatic envoy to what is called "the land of Somalia," considering it a flagrant violation of the sovereignty of the Federal Republic of Somalia and the unity and territorial integrity of its lands.

Police intercept suspect with 100 rounds of ammunition at Zamfara–Katsina border

By: Zagazola Makama

Operatives have intercepted a suspect in possession of 100 rounds of live ammunition along the Zamfara–Katsina border in a move to curb the proliferation of illegal arms.

The arrest was made at about 7:20 a.m. on April 17, 2026, during a stop-and-search operation at a checkpoint in the Yankara axis, following credible intelligence.

The suspect, identified as Umar Sani, 30, from Magami village in Gusau Local Government Area, was apprehended while riding a motorcycle from Abuja to his hometown.

A search of the motorcycle led to the discovery of 100 rounds of 7.62mm live ammunition for AK-47 rifles concealed inside the fuel tank.

Authorities said the suspect is currently in custody, while investigations are ongoing to determine the source of the ammunition and identify other members of the suspected network.

Security officials noted that the interception is part of ongoing efforts to disrupt the flow of illegal weapons fueling criminal activities in the state.

They also urged residents to remain vigilant and continue to provide timely and credible information to support security operations.

Troops destroy terrorist hideouts linked to Monguno attack

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops have destroyed identified terrorist hideouts in Monguno Local Government Area of Borno State following investigations into a recent attack on military positions.

Security sources said the action was taken sequel to the ISWAP terrorist attack on troops’ locations at Charlie 13 and Charlie 7 in Monguno on April 13, 2026.

According to the sources, findings from ongoing investigations at about 1:05 p.m. on April 14 revealed that some structures in the Gana Ali general area were being used as hideouts by the terrorists.

The sources added that certain houses and makeshift structures along the route were also identified as facilitating the emplacement and detonation of a command improvised explosive device (IED) used during the attack on reinforcement troops.

Consequently, the identified structures were destroyed in situ to deny the terrorists further operational advantage.

Security sources said the measure was part of ongoing efforts to degrade terrorist capabilities and prevent future attacks on troops in the North-East.

🇳🇬🇳🇪🇹🇩🇨🇲🪖NIGERIA, NIGER, CHAD, CAMEROON LAUNCH JOINT MILITARY OPERATION

In a significant regional development, Nigeria, Niger, Chad, and Cameroon have launched a coordinated military operation against ISWAP and Boko Haram positions around the Lake Chad Basin. The operation, code-named "Lake Sanity III," involves air and ground assets from all four nations targeting terrorist logistics hubs and hideouts. This marks the first major joint operation since diplomatic tensions eased following Niger's 2023 coup.

Troops repel terrorist attack in Borno, pursue fleeing insurgents

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have successfully repelled an attack by suspected ISWAP/JAS terrorists in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State.

Security sources said the incident occurred at about 8:30 a.m. on April 16, 2026, when the terrorists launched an assault on troops of Headquarters 29 Task Force Brigade.

According to the sources, the troops engaged the attackers in a firefight, forcing them to retreat in disarray.

The sources added that the troops pursued the fleeing insurgents but did not make further contact.

Security operations remain ongoing to track the fleeing terrorists and prevent further attacks in the area.

Troops arrest suspect, recover six motorcycles in Edo operation

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 322 Artillery Regiment under Operation MESA, in collaboration with local hunters, have arrested a suspected criminal during a cordon-and-search operation in Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Security sources said the operation was conducted at about 9:50 a.m. on April 14 at Daban Sule Fulani settlement in Ekpoma.

According to the sources, the troops carried out the operation based on credible intelligence and successfully apprehended the suspect.

Items recovered from the suspect include six motorcycles believed to be linked to criminal activities.

The sources added that the suspect and recovered motorcycles have been handed over to the Nigeria Police for further investigation and necessary action.

Security agencies have continued operations in the area to curb criminal activities and ensure the safety of residents.

Troops arrest bandit kingpin’s Deputy, wife in Gombe following intelligence operation

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops have arrested the second-in-command to a notorious bandit kingpin, Kachalla Auta, alongside his wife in Gombe State following an intelligence-led tracking operation across multiple locations.

Sources said the suspects, identified as Bala, popularly known as “Pakapaka,” and his wife, Zulaha Bala, were intercepted after fleeing from Dajin Madam Forest in Plateau State.

According to the sources, the arrests were the result of sustained intelligence surveillance and coordinated ground tracking by security operatives targeting fleeing members of the criminal network.

The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation to determine their level of involvement in the group’s activities and possible connections with other cells operating within and outside the region.

In a related development, troops conducted follow-up patrols around Bayar village in the Duguri axis after intelligence indicated that the main bandit kingpin had fled into the area.

However, no contact was made during the search operation.

Security sources said troops have continued to dominate the general area with sustained patrols aimed at denying criminal elements freedom of movement and disrupting their operational networks across Plateau, Taraba, and adjoining states.

Imam Al-Awzai’s Letter of Warning against Heresy and Heretics

It is reported that Imâm Al-Awzâ’î (d157H) wrote:

O Muslims, fear Allâh and obey Him, and accept the advice of the sincere advisers and the exhortation of the exhorters, and know that this knowledge is religion, so be careful about what you do [in it] and from whom you take [it] and who you follow and who you trust your religion to. For verily, the followers of Bid’ah are all falsifiers and liars, neither are they careful nor do they fear and protect [against wrongdoing], and nor are they to be trusted to not distort what you hear. They say what they know not when criticizing and decrying or when affirming their lies. But Allâh encompasses what they do. So be on guard against them, suspect them, reject them and distance yourselves from them, for this was what your earlier scholars and the righteous latter ones did and instructed others to do.

Beware of rising against Allâh and becoming instruments in the destruction of His religion and undoing its handholds by respecting the innovators, for you know what has come down to us about respecting them. And what stronger respect and veneration can there be than taking your religion from them, following them, believing them, being close to them and helping them in alluring those they allure and attracting those they attract of the weak Muslims towards their ideas and the religion they practice? This is enough to be considered a partnership and contribution to what they do.

Ibn ‘Asâkir, Târîkh Dimishq 6:361, 362.

Troops arrest suspected Boko Haram member in Yobe

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of 233 Battalion have arrested a suspected ISWAP/JAS member within the Damaturu Military Cantonment in Yobe State.

Security sources said the suspect was apprehended at about 11:00 p.m. on April 12 between Charlie 2 and Charlie 3 areas of the cantonment in Damaturu Local Government Area.

According to the sources, troops recovered a bag containing clothes and a SIM card from the suspect.

They added that during preliminary investigation, the suspect claimed he was heading to Potiskum and identified himself as an almajiri from the 1000 Area of Maiduguri.

The sources, however, noted that his statements were incoherent, while further physical examination reportedly revealed a rifle sling mark on his shoulder, raising further suspicion.

They said the suspect is currently in custody for further investigation and necessary action.

Troops repel another ISWAP attack on Banishaik in Borno

By: Zagazola Makama

Troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai have repelled an attack by suspected Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on Benisheikh in Borno State, preventing a possible overrun of the area.

Sources said the incident occurred at about 2315 hours on April 14, 2026.

The sources stated that troops of Headquarters 29 Task Force Brigade came under attack from the insurgents but successfully contained the assault and forced the terrorists to withdraw in disarray.

According to the sources, no soldier was killed in the engagement, while three personnel sustained injuries during the exchange of fire.

The injured soldiers were evacuated to the 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital for treatment.

The military said the number of terrorist casualties could not be immediately confirmed, adding that exploitation of the general area was ongoing to track fleeing fighters and assess the extent of damage inflicted.

The noted that the overall security situation across the theatre of operations remained calm but unpredictable.

TROOPS SMASHES BANDIT STRONGHOLDS IN BAUCHI, RESCUES HOSTAGES RECOVERS ARMS

Troops of 33 Artillery Brigade under Operation WUTAN DAJI have recorded a significant operational success following a coordinated clearance operation in Kumbodoro Forest and Kumbodoro Village in Bauchi State. The offensive offensive operation dealt a major setback to bandit networks operating within the area.

Troops successfully cleared multiple bandit enclaves, including the notorious Azuge camps within the Kumbodoro Forest axis. Supported by the Air Component, the troops neutralised several bandits and dismantled key operational bases, further degrading the criminals’ capability to threaten lives and property of citizens. The operation led to rescue of eight kidnapped victims.

A thorough search of the bandits enclave led to the recovery of cache of arms and equipment, including 4 skeletal rifles, 4 dane guns, one FN rifle magazine, one AK-47 magazine, as well as communication devices and other operational items.
Other recovered items include 2 pairs of boots, 3 helmets, one power bank, one StarTimes decoder, QJC meta links, one jackknife, 6 mobile handsets, arrows, radio chargers, OPAY ATM cards, photographs, an identity card, several pairs of security agency uniforms and leg chains.

Relatedly, troops deployed at Duguri while acting on credible intelligence, recovered 36 cows at Mushen Kura Village in collaboration with local vigilantes. The livestock are believed to have been abandoned by fleeing bandits due to sustained military pressure. Efforts are ongoing to identify and return the animals to their rightful owners.

The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to restore peace and stability across all theatres of operation, leveraging intelligence-driven operations, joint force synergy and strategic partnerships to deny bandits and terrorists any safe haven.

Troops arrest teenage iswap logistics courier in ngamdu, link suspect to Jilli strikes

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have arrested a 15-year-old suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) logistics courier in Ngamdu, Borno, linking him to recent terrorist attacks and ongoing military airstrikes on insurgent enclaves in the Jilli axis.

Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the suspect, identified as Tijjani, was apprehended on Sunday while allegedly attempting to procure logistics for insurgent fighters operating within the Ngamdu–Benisheik corridor.

According to the sources, the suspect confessed during preliminary interrogation that he participated in the attacks on Benisheik and Ngamdu carried out on Thursday.

“My name is Tijjani, I am 15 years old. I was arrested today in Ngamdu. I was among the terrorists that attacked Benisheik and Ngamdu,” the source quoted him as saying.

He reportedly disclosed that the group mobilised from Jilli, a known insurgent stronghold in Gubio Local Government Area, before executing the attacks and subsequently returned to the enclave.

“Before the attack we came from Jilli and returned there after the attack,” he said.

The suspect further revealed that he was redeployed from Jilli on Saturday with the sum of N850,000 to procure supplies for other fighters.

“I was sent from Jilli yesterday with N850,000 to collect some logistics from Ngamdu, but I was arrested by troops,” he reportedly stated.

He added that he left behind other fighters at the Jilli enclave but could not confirm their fate following the recent military airstrikes on the area.

“I left my colleagues at Jilli yesterday. I don’t know what has happened to them there,” he said.

Military sources said the arrest of the suspect provides further insight into the operational and logistics network of ISWAP within the region, particularly the central role of Jilli as a staging ground and supply hub.

The development comes barely 24 hours after the Air Component of OPHK conducted precision airstrikes on the Jilli axis, destroying a major terrorist logistics base and neutralising scores of insurgents.

The strikes, which followed sustained Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, targeted a convergence of motorcycles and vehicles identified as belonging to insurgents and their logistics handlers.

Field reports indicated that at least two motorcycles and one vehicle were destroyed, while several terrorists were killed in the operation.

Some insurgents were said to have taken cover upon hearing the approaching aircraft but later returned in the evening to evacuate casualties.

Military authorities have consistently described Jilli as a “no man’s land” under insurgent control, where activities such as the so-called weekly market serve as logistics and coordination points for terrorist operations.

The arrest of the teenage suspect, who admitted to moving funds and facilitating supplies, underscores the reliance of insurgent groups on logistics couriers, including minors, to sustain their operations.

Security experts say disrupting such supply chains is critical to weakening the operational capacity of insurgent groups in the North-East.

The military has reiterated its commitment to sustaining pressure on terrorist enclaves through coordinated air and ground operations, aimed at dismantling logistics networks and preventing further attacks on both security forces and civilian communities.

Investigations into the suspect’s activities and possible accomplices are ongoing.

Imām al-Shāfiʿī (رحمه الله) said:

من عاند السنة قصد الصحابة،
ومن قصد الصحابة أبغض النَّبِيّ،
ومن أبغض النَّبِيّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ كفر بالله العظيم.

“Whoever opposes the Sunnah has in reality targeted the Companions.
Whoever targets the Companions has come to hate the Prophet ﷺ.
Whoever hates the Prophet ﷺ has disbelieved in Allah the Magnificent.”

Ṭabaqāt al-Ḥanābilah (1/13).

The Federal High Court in Abuja has sentenced Auwalu Samaila, a member of the Boko Haram terrorist group, to death by hanging for his involvement in multiple terror attacks across northern Nigeria.

Palliative 5kg bags of rice meant for casual workers were cornered by a Deputy Director, she released the rest when she was about to retire 2years later.