Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai have killed top ISWAP commanders, including Shura Council member Abu Hajara, while repelling an attack in Borno
Operation Hadin Kai Neutralises Top ISWAP Commanders, Shura Council Member In Borno
By Newsheadline247
Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, have neutralised several high-ranking Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including a member of the group’s Shura Council and a prominent commander, during an encounter in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
The military said the operation, conducted on October 31, 2026, dealt a significant blow to ISWAP’s leadership and operational capabilities in the North-East.
Among those killed were Abu Hajara, a high-profile member of ISWAP’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a prominent commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, the group’s overall Wali. Two other high-ranking Arab fighters were also neutralised during the engagement.
The troops, deployed in Kukawa, successfully repelled a massive attack by ISWAP terrorists on their positions, deploying both ground forces and air assets from the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI.
The development was disclosed by the Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, in a statement made available to journalists on Sunday, November 1, 2026.
According to Goni, troops recovered several arms, ammunition and communication devices following the engagement.
He said the successful operation demonstrated the combat readiness, vigilance and superior firepower of the troops in sustaining pressure on terrorist groups across the theatre.
The Kukawa attack occurred barely three days after another military engagement in Buni Yadi, where troops reportedly neutralised 55 terrorists, including several key commanders.
Those identified in the Buni Yadi operation included Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir; Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk; and Commander Gogore.
The military said the successive operations reflected its continued efforts to weaken ISWAP’s leadership structure, disrupt its operations and prevent the group from establishing a foothold in communities across the North-East.
Goni said the Theatre Command had reaffirmed its commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and sustaining military operations aimed at eliminating terrorist elements and destroying their camps across the region.
Operation HADIN KAI has continued to conduct military operations against insurgent groups in the North-East as security forces intensify efforts to restore stability and protect communities affected by the prolonged insurgency.
