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  • ISWAP Fighters Bury 30 Members After Nigerian Airstrikes Hit Northern Borno Hideouts

    Fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have been seen burying dozens of their members following a series of Nigerian Air Force airstrikes that reportedly struck terrorist positions in parts of northern Borno State, in what security sources describe as one of the most intense recent interdiction operations in the region.

    What happened

    The footage, which surfaced on X (formerly Twitter), was shared by counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama and appears to show ISWAP operatives conducting mass burial rites after sustaining heavy losses from coordinated air operations carried out under Operation Hadin Kai in the North-East theatre.

    The development comes shortly after reports that the Nigerian Air Force carried out precision strikes targeting terrorist hideouts along waterways and forested areas, following intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) monitoring of suspected ISWAP movement in the Kaniram Island axis and surrounding locations.

    How the operation unfolded

    Security sources said ISR platforms first detected unusual movement of approximately 31 boats along a riverbank, with activity patterns consistent with armed terrorist logistics operations. After confirmation of the targets, the Air Force reportedly launched precision strikes in line with established engagement protocols.

    The first wave of strikes disrupted the terrorists’ movement network and damaged several boats believed to be used for transportation and supply operations across waterways in the area. According to the account, follow-up surveillance showed attempts by surviving fighters to regroup in nearby vegetation, prompting additional targeted strikes.

    A second round of precision attacks reportedly neutralised about eight fighters, while a third strike hit another group of roughly 15 militants who had taken cover under dense tree cover. Battle Damage Assessment later confirmed significant casualties, with remaining fighters seen dispersing from surrounding hideouts.

    Burial video and battlefield aftermath

    In the video now circulating online, ISWAP members are seen burying what is believed to be about 30 of their fighters in the Mallam Fatori axis, an area frequently linked to insurgent movement and cross-border activity in Borno State.

    Security sources cited by Makama said the burials followed sustained aerial pressure that left the group with heavy operational losses, forcing them to conduct emergency rites for fallen members in the aftermath of the strikes.

    The Nigerian military has continued its air and ground operations across the North-East, targeting insurgent enclaves and supply routes in a bid to weaken their mobility and logistics capacity.

  • NAF “Kills” Terrorists in Sambisa as Fresh Airstrike Destroys Hideouts

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has eliminated several terrorists in a precision airstrike carried out on April 19, 2026, in the Yuwe axis of Sambisa Forest, Borno State, as part of ongoing operations against insurgents in the North-East.

    What happened

    According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the strike was executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI after credible intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists in fortified structures and bunkers.

    He said the targets were engaged with precision munitions, leading to the destruction of the structures and the neutralisation of multiple fighters.

    Details of the operation

    Ejodame explained that the mission was supported by Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance operations, which verified terrorist activity in the area before the strike.

    “NAF air assets engaged the targets with precision munitions, destroying the structures, neutralising multiple terrorists, and eliminating key logistics facilities,” he said.

    He added that a post-strike Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the impact of the operation.

    Military speaks on ongoing operations

    The NAF noted that sustained air offensives have continued to weaken terrorist networks in the region, forcing them into more desperate actions.

    “The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly exposed and disrupted,” Ejodame stated.

    Also speaking, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, reaffirmed the military’s commitment to intensifying operations.

    “The Nigerian Air Force will sustain relentless, intelligence-driven air operations until terrorist elements are completely neutralised,” he said.

    Background

    Sambisa Forest has remained a major stronghold for insurgent groups operating in Nigeria’s North-East for years.

    Military operations under Operation HADIN KAI have focused on dismantling these networks through coordinated ground and air offensives.

  • Terrorists Kill Soldiers, Seize Army Gun Truck in Kwara After Hours-Long Gun Battle

    Terrorists have reportedly killed security operatives and carted away an army gun truck after a fierce gun battle with soldiers in Kemanji community, Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State, in the early hours of Monday.

    The clash, which lasted nearly two hours from about 3am to 5am, comes amid fresh attacks in Plateau and Benue states where at least 11 persons were also reported killed.

    What happened

    Sources said the attackers stormed the community in large numbers and launched a direct assault on a security formation comprising soldiers, forest guards, and vigilantes.

    A former council chairman disclosed that three soldiers and two vigilantes were killed during the encounter, while several others sustained injuries.

    “They came around 3am and attacked the security post… they also took motorcycles, guns, ammunition, and even the army gun truck,” the source said.

    Weapons carted away

    Residents confirmed that the attackers overwhelmed the troops before fleeing with military equipment, including about 12 motorcycles, arms, and ammunition.

    Another source said the attackers also evacuated their injured members, raising concerns about possible local collaboration.

    Military response

    Security operatives were said to have launched a pursuit operation into nearby forests, believed to be the attackers’ hideout.

    Some injured personnel have been taken to Kaiama General Hospital, while severe cases were referred to Ilorin for further treatment.

    No civilian casualties

    Community sources and the village head, Alhaji Sanni Zikki, confirmed that residents were not attacked during the incident.

    “The terrorists came from Kainji National Park and attacked our security men. We lost three soldiers… but there was no casualty among residents,” he said.

    Wider attacks

    The Kwara incident occurred alongside separate attacks in Plateau and Benue communities, where no fewer than 11 persons were reportedly killed and several others injured.

    Efforts to get official confirmation from police authorities were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

  • Gunmen Attack Travellers on Ibadan–Ijebu Road, One Killed as Passengers Flee

    Suspected terrorists attacked travellers along the Ibadan–Ijebu road in Oyo State on Saturday evening, leaving one person dead and several others scrambling for safety.

    The incident occurred around 6 p.m. near Onigambari Village in the Idi Gbogun area.

    What happened

    Witnesses said a Toyota Corolla Sport car was leading a convoy of vehicles, including a bus, when armed men suddenly emerged from the bush and opened fire.

    Passengers reportedly jumped out of their vehicles and ran in different directions to escape the attack.

    Footage circulating on social media showed a bus riddled with bullet holes and stained with blood, highlighting the intensity of the assault.

    Police react

    The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the incident.

    According to the command’s spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, the attackers attempted a kidnapping but were unsuccessful.

    “There was an attempted kidnapping, but nobody was abducted. One life was unfortunately lost,” he said.

    Rising concerns

    The attack adds to growing security concerns on Nigerian highways, where cases of armed attacks and abductions have continued to rise.

    Travellers have increasingly raised alarm over the safety of major roads across the country.

  • Army Arrests Over 20 Suspects, Dismantles Camps in Nationwide Crackdown

    The Nigerian Army has arrested over 20 suspected terrorists and criminals in a series of coordinated operations carried out across multiple states within 24 hours, intensifying its ongoing fight against insecurity.

    Scope of the operations

    According to an operational report released at the Army Headquarters in Abuja on Sunday, the arrests followed intelligence-led offensives conducted with support from other security agencies and local vigilantes.

    The operations targeted terrorist hideouts, kidnapping syndicates and criminal networks operating across different parts of the country.

    Arrests and recoveries across states

    In Kogi State, troops of 12 Brigade, working with police and vigilantes, arrested two suspected terrorists during raids in Kakuma Ileteju/Origa and Ijumu communities, recovering motorcycles and chainsaw machines.

    In Kaduna State, a suspected terrorist was apprehended in Afaka, where he reportedly confessed to fleeing a camp due to internal clashes among members.

    Troops in Sokoto State also cleared several villages in Tangaza LGA, destroying a terrorist camp and recovering military-style clothing.

    Rescue operations and breakthroughs

    The Army disclosed that a Nigerien national held captive for over three weeks was rescued, highlighting the cross-border dimension of criminal activities.

    In Kwara State, troops responded to a distress call, forcing kidnappers to abandon three victims, while in Edo State, security forces rescued victims, arrested five suspected kidnappers and recovered an AK-47 rifle with ammunition.

    Further operations in Delta led to the arrest of a suspected IPOB member at Umunede Junction.

    Crackdown on drugs and illegal activities

    In Akwa Ibom State, troops raided drug hideouts, arresting six suspects and recovering various hard drugs, including cannabis, methamphetamine, codeine and tramadol, along with cash.

    In Rivers State, illegal bunkering sites were dismantled, with equipment and petroleum products seized.

    Plateau State operations led to the arrest of nine suspects and the recovery of firearms, ammunition, motorcycles and mobile phones, while troops in Abia uncovered suspected stolen crude oil along the Imo River axis.

    Ongoing security push

    The Army said the operations form part of a broader strategy to disrupt criminal networks, dismantle terrorist infrastructure and improve security across the country.

     

  • ISWAP Blocks Maiduguri–Damaturu Highway After Deadly Jilli Airstrike Sparks Controversy

    Suspected ISWAP terrorists have blocked the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway following a recent military airstrike on Jilli market, in what security sources describe as a retaliatory move after the operation disrupted insurgent activities in the area.

    The blockade reportedly occurred days after the air operation along the Borno–Yobe border, intensifying concerns over security and civilian safety in the region.

    What happened

    According to security sources, the insurgents moved onto the highway and halted movement shortly after the strike on Jilli market.

    A counter-terrorism expert, identified as @mobilisingniger on X, shared a video showing the development, describing it as a show of defiance by the group.

    “After the airstrike in Jilli market, they started acting aggressively. Today, they blocked the road and stopped movement,” he said.

    Airstrike and casualty controversy

    Last Saturday, the Nigerian military carried out an airstrike on Jilli market during peak trading hours, with reports indicating that at least 56 people were feared dead and 14 others injured.

    The strike was believed to be targeting Boko Haram insurgents and their collaborators, but multiple sources claimed the intended targets were missed, raising concerns about civilian casualties.

    Jilli market, located between Gubio and Geidam Local Government Areas, is known to attract traders from surrounding communities across Borno and Yobe states.

    Government defends operation

    Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, however, insisted that Jilli market had been officially shut down five years ago due to its links to insurgent logistics.

    He described the location as a long-standing hub for terrorist activities, stating that its closure was part of efforts to disrupt supply chains used by armed groups.

    Similarly, the Minister of Defence, Christopher Musa, defended the airstrike, rejecting claims that civilians were killed.

    He maintained that the operation was a deliberate move to dismantle a key support base for insurgents rather than a tragic error.

    Rising tension in the region

    The highway blockade has heightened fears among residents and travellers, as the Maiduguri–Damaturu road remains a critical route linking parts of the North-East.

    The development adds to ongoing security challenges in the region, with authorities under pressure to contain insurgent threats and protect civilian lives.

  • ISWAP Claims Series of Deadly Attacks on Nigerian Forces, Alleges Coordinated Strikes Across Borders

    The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) has claimed responsibility for a wave of attacks targeting Nigerian security forces and neighbouring countries, detailing coordinated operations involving explosives, ambushes, and assaults on military and police positions.

    ISWAP details alleged attacks on troops

    The claims were published in Arabic and later translated into English, with copies circulating on social media platform X on Thursday.

    According to the group, its fighters executed multiple operations using roadside bombs and ambush tactics against security convoys and checkpoints.

    One of the key claims involved an attack on a military patrol in northern Nigeria.

    “What actually happened was that the roadside bomb exploded directly on the patrol, causing the death of seven soldiers, including an officer with the rank of Major, wounding others, and destroying a four-wheel-drive vehicle,” the statement read.

    Ambush operations and cross-border claims

    ISWAP also claimed it carried out an attack on an army position near a town’s outskirts, allegedly designed to lure troops into an ambush.

    The group further alleged attacks on police officers and local militia members, saying dozens were killed across operations in Nigeria and neighbouring Niger Republic.

    It also referenced an attack on a checkpoint at the entrance of Rifa city in Niger Republic, claiming casualties and destruction of military equipment.

    “11 attacks in one week” — group claims escalation

    The publication claimed that at least 11 attacks were carried out within one week, resulting in 42 vehicles being burned or disabled.

    Beyond West Africa, ISWAP also included claims of attacks in Syria, including an alleged strike on a government vehicle near Raqqa.

    Allegations against Nigerian military

    The group accused Nigerian troops of carrying out retaliatory actions against civilian communities near Monguno, describing them as “desperate and uncivilised steps… to cover up its repeated failures and heavy losses.”

    Security caution over claims

    Security analysts have urged caution over the reports, warning that insurgent groups often exaggerate operational success for propaganda purposes.

    A security source told Punch that such statements should be treated carefully, noting that terrorist organisations frequently rely on misinformation and psychological warfare to shape public perception.

  • VeryDarkMan Reacts to FG’s Reintegration of 744 Ex-Terrorists, Questions Justice for Victims and Soldiers

    Popular Nigerian social media critic VeryDarkMan has reacted strongly to the Federal Government’s decision to reintegrate 744 repentant terrorists into society, sparking fresh debate over Nigeria’s deradicalisation strategy.

    FG confirms reintegration of 744 ex-insurgents

    The Federal Government recently confirmed that 744 former insurgents who completed the deradicalisation programme under Operation Safe Corridor in Gombe State have been reintegrated into society.

    The announcement was made on April 17, 2026, as part of ongoing efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s North-East region, which has been heavily affected by Boko Haram-linked violence over the years.

    The ex-combatants, drawn from states including Borno, Yobe, Kano, and Adamawa, reportedly underwent months of rehabilitation, psychological counselling, vocational training, and civic education aimed at preparing them for civilian life.

    Military explains rehabilitation programme

    Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, clarified that the initiative is not an amnesty programme but a structured deradicalisation process designed to reduce violence and discourage future recruitment into extremist groups.

    He also urged communities to support the reintegrated individuals as they attempt to rebuild their lives.

    VeryDarkMan kicks against move

    Reacting via social media, VeryDarkMan condemned the development, describing it as unfair to victims of insurgency and Nigerian soldiers who have lost their lives in the conflict.

    He questioned the government’s approach, arguing that repeated rehabilitation and release of former fighters raises concerns about accountability and justice.

    Concerns over monitoring system

    The critic also raised doubts about the effectiveness of monitoring mechanisms for reintegrated individuals, warning that some could relapse into criminal activity if economic incentives from rehabilitation programmes are not sustainable.

    His comments have triggered widespread reactions online, with Nigerians divided over whether rehabilitation should take priority over stricter punitive measures in addressing insecurity.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/DXObzDujL2T/?igsh=YzljYTk1ODg3Zg==

  • 744 Repentant Terrorists Graduate from FG De-radicalisation Programme, Face Fresh Debate Over Reintegration

    A total of 744 repentant terrorists and victims of violent extremism have graduated from the Federal Government’s De-radicalisation, Rehabilitation and Reintegration programme under Operation Safe Corridor, reigniting national debate over Nigeria’s strategy for handling former insurgents.

    What happened

    The graduation ceremony was held on Thursday in Gombe State, where military officials and government representatives confirmed the completion of the programme by the 744 participants drawn from different parts of Nigeria and neighbouring countries.

    A breakdown shows the majority, 597 participants, are from Borno State, while others came from Yobe, Adamawa, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Plateau, and several other states.

    Foreign nationals from Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Chad, and the Niger Republic were also part of the cohort.

    Military explains programme

    The Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, described the initiative as a strategic security tool rather than a reward for violence.

    Represented by Rear Admiral Kabiru Tanimu, he said the programme addresses the root causes of extremism while supporting long-term peacebuilding efforts.

    “This is not a reward but a deliberate strategy to reduce violence, weaken extremist recruitment and promote long-term stability,” he said.

    He added that while military operations remain essential, rehabilitation and reintegration are necessary for sustainable peace.

    Training and rehabilitation process

    Officials said participants underwent extensive rehabilitation, including psychosocial therapy, vocational training, civic education, religious reorientation, and behavioural reform.

    According to Brig. Gen. Yusuf Ali, the programme is designed not just for disengagement, but for rebuilding identity and reintegration into society.

    “Some were abducted, others were forced, and many were drawn into the conflict due to circumstances beyond their control,” he said.

    Call for community support

    Authorities stressed that reintegration will require cooperation from state governments, communities, and families.

    The Defence Headquarters warned that acceptance and monitoring of the graduates will be critical to sustaining peace gains.

    “Nigeria is giving you a second chance; do not waste it,” the CDS told the graduates.

    Concerns and criticism

    Despite government backing, Operation Safe Corridor has continued to face criticism from sections of the public and political figures.

    Critics argue that some beneficiaries may return to insurgency, raising concerns about national security and accountability in the programme.

    Senator Adams Oshiomhole has previously called for the suspension of the initiative, citing fears of recidivism among repentant fighters.

    Wider security context

    The programme was introduced as part of Nigeria’s broader counter-insurgency strategy in the North-East, combining military action with non-kinetic approaches aimed at reducing radicalisation and encouraging reintegration.

    While supporters say it helps weaken extremist recruitment networks, debates continue over its long-term effectiveness in addressing insecurity.