Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) at Mairari, dealing a significant blow to the group’s operational capability in the area.

The attempted attack, which commenced late on 12 December 2025 and continued into the early hours of 13 December, was decisively thwarted through coordinated ground and air operations.

During the assault, the terrorists attempted to breach the base using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs). Both devices were detected in time and neutralised by troops through effective defensive fire, preventing any penetration of the FOB. CCTV footage and battlefield assessment confirmed that several terrorists were neutralised, while others sustained severe injuries as surviving elements evacuated their casualties.

In a follow-up operation, troops of OPHK Sector 3, supported by the Theatre Command Quick Reaction Group, the Nigeria Police Crack Team, and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), conducted a detailed exploitation of the area. The operation resulted in the discovery of additional terrorist casualties and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and logistics abandoned during the terrorists’ retreat.

Items recovered included AK-47 rifles, magazines and assorted ammunition, PKT rounds, hand grenades, motorcycles, communication equipment, combat gear, medical supplies, and other materials associated with sustained terrorist activity. These recoveries have further degraded the enemy’s fighting capability and restricted their freedom of action.

The two neutralised VBIEDs were destroyed by OPHK defensive fire, causing damage to two sections of the access road. Crucially, the Forward Operating Base was not breached, underscoring the preparedness, vigilance, and resilience of the troops.

Troops are currently conducting aggressive patrols and clearance operations in the surrounding areas to forestall further terrorist activity and reassure local communities of the military’s sustained presence.

Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North East. The failed attack at Mairari highlights the operational readiness and professionalism of the men and women of the Armed Forces.

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