Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), operating under ‘Operation HADIN KAI’ (OPHK), have scored a significant victory in the ongoing fight against insurgency in Nigeria’s North-East by killing a notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander.
According to reports, the development was announced on Saturday by the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force, OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, in a statement released from Maiduguri, Borno State.
High-Value Target Eliminated Around Kimba
Troops engaged insurgents in a planned operation around Kimba, Damboa LGA, Borno State, on January 30, 2026, per official statement.
In the course of this encounter, they successfully neutralised a high-profile terrorist leader, identified as JULAIBIB.
A top ISWAP commander known for orchestrating attacks within the Gujba axis of the so-called Timbuktu Triangle.
Lt. Col. Uba: “OPHK troops recorded major North-East successes, neutralising high-value terrorists and disrupting insurgent activities.”
And foiling criminal operations through sustained, intelligence-driven actions.
In a significant breakthrough, intelligence has confirmed the killing of JULAIBIB during an encounter around Kimba, Damboa LGA, on 30 January 2026.”
ISWAP Leadership in Disarray
Intelligence gathered after the operation indicated that the elimination of JULAIBIB has created considerable turmoil within ISWAP’s ranks in the region.
Troops reportedly neutralized several additional fighters during the operation, further weakening the group’s command and control structure. Lt. Col. Uba added.
“This impressive development represents a major blow to the command and control structure of ISWAP in the region.”
Coordinated Ambush Operations in Borno
Armed with intelligence on insurgent movements, troops positioned tactically along the route and engaged Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists as they passed.
The resulting firefight saw three insurgents neutralised, while others managed to escape with gunshot injuries.
The troops recovered two AK-47 rifles from the scene.
According to the OPHK statement, “The operation forms part of sustained efforts to deny terrorists freedom of movement and degrade their operational capabilities across the Theatre.”
Further Gains in Gwoza LGA
On 29 January 2026, OPHK troops ambushed a Boko Haram/ISWAP group at Tsokorok in Gwoza LGA, Borno State, sustaining their momentum.
The ambush team immediately engaged the terrorists, forcing them to retreat.
Troops neutralized one terrorist in the encounter and emerged unscathed.
Troops recovered two motorcycles, believed to aid insurgent mobility, at the scene.
Impact on Insurgency in North-East Nigeria
Recent operations highlight OPHK’s effective intelligence-driven approach and value of CJTF collaboration.
Buying time for security agencies to consolidate territorial gains and restore relative peace to beleaguered communities.
Security analysts say eliminating high-value targets and restricting movement degrades Boko Haram/ISWAP operational capabilities crucially.
The string of recent successes by OPHK reflects a renewed commitment to proactive security operations across the North-East Theatre.
Troops continue offensive; Nigerian military vows to pursue remaining insurgents and ensure civilian safety in the region.
Latest developments offer hope: sustained efforts will weaken terrorist networks and pave the way for long-term stability in Nigeria’s North-East.
