Nigerian Troops Attack ISWAP Hideouts in Lake Chad, Eliminate 16 Fighters

Troops from Operation Hadin Kai have killed 16 suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province. This happened during air and artillery strikes on three suspected terrorist spots in the Tunbunma area of South Lake Chad.

The operation took place between 1am and 2am on Monday, October 26, 2026. This followed intelligence reports about key terrorist leaders and fighters hiding in the area.

The military shared this news on Monday. The statement was signed by Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer at Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation Hadin Kai.

Goni stated that the operation used both air and ground weapon systems to target the identified locations.

“Battle Damage Assessment indicates that 16 ISWAP fighters were neutralised across the targeted locations,” the statement noted.

The military named some of those killed as Abu Zubiru, an Arab national, and his associates Baana Nglewa and Jindullah Sadiq.

The report also mentioned that Abu Saleem, the Wali of Tunbunma, got serious injuries along with seven others during the operation.

This offensive is part of ongoing efforts to break down terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin.

“Operation HADIN KAI reaffirms that there is no hiding place for terrorists. We are committed to restoring peace and normalcy while conducting intelligence-led operations against terrorist elements in the North East,” the statement added.

The military also called on the public to share timely and credible information with security agencies to help support ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.