A joint air operation conducted by the Nigerian military under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has reportedly eliminated 21 suspected fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State. The strike targeted a terrorist stronghold in Arege, located in Kukawa Local Government Area, on May 30 after intelligence indicated the presence of insurgents in the area.
Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, citing military sources, disclosed that the operation followed extensive intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance activities that confirmed ISWAP operatives were using the location.
According to the sources, the camp served as a base for planning and coordinating attacks across the Lake Chad region. The airstrike reportedly killed 21 insurgents and disrupted the group's operations within the area.
Military officials said the mission forms part of ongoing security cooperation between Nigeria and the United States aimed at dismantling terrorist networks, destroying insurgent hideouts and reducing the operational capabilities of extremist groups in the North-East.
They described the operation as “intelligence-driven and carefully executed to achieve maximum impact against the targeted terrorists".
The sources added that the success of the operation underscores the strengthening partnership between Nigerian security forces and international allies in the fight against terrorism.
They further expressed confidence that the strike would weaken insurgent activities around the Lake Chad Basin, where terrorist groups have continued efforts to regroup and launch attacks on vulnerable communities.