By Chimezie Godfrey
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have foiled coordinated terrorist attacks in parts of Adamawa and Borno States, neutralising scores of terrorists during follow-up operations.
Confirming the development, the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lieutenant Solomon Agada Atokolo, said the attacks occurred in the early hours of Friday, January 16, 2026.
“At Sabon Gari in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State, terrorists attempted to overrun a patrol base under Sector 4 of Operation HADIN KAI,” Atokolo said.
He disclosed that “alert troops swiftly engaged the attackers, supported by reinforcements from Gulak and the Battalion Quick Reaction Force.”
According to him, the swift response forced the terrorists to abandon the attack without any casualty to own troops or loss of equipment.
“At the end of the engagement, the general area was cleared and scanned for Improvised Explosive Devices and booby traps to ensure the safety of troops and civilians,” Atokolo added.
The spokesman further revealed that on the same day, terrorists launched a large-scale, multi-directional attack on Forward Operating Base Azir in Borno State.
“At FOB Azir, the attackers initially attempted to breach part of the defensive perimeter but were met with overwhelming firepower from gallant troops,” he said.
Atokolo explained that the troops were supported by the Air Component of OPHK and other Nigerian Army aerial platforms during a prolonged firefight that lasted over an hour.
He said the terrorists were decisively overpowered and forced to withdraw after suffering heavy losses.
Although Rocket Propelled Grenade fire affected some Troop Carrying Vehicles and the CCTV control room, Atokolo said troops maintained firm control of the situation.
“Persistent Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms tracked the fleeing terrorists, leading to precision air strikes that neutralised additional scores,” he stated.
Atokolo reaffirmed that OPHK troops remain resolute in denying terrorists freedom of action and protecting the North East region.