By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI have reinforced their operational dominance in Ngoshe and Gwoza areas of Borno State, successfully countering insurgent propaganda and ensuring peaceful Eid-el-Fitr celebrations across the axis.
This was disclosed in a statement by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Appolonia Anele, who noted that terrorists affiliated with Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province had recently circulated false claims of plans to overrun Ngoshe and hold Sallah prayers at the Central Mosque.
According to the statement, the claims were part of a desperate attempt by the insurgents to instill fear and project a false sense of strength despite their significantly degraded capacity.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops swiftly reinforced the area following an attempted incursion on March 4, intensifying clearance operations with the support of aerial surveillance and cooperation from local residents. The coordinated response disrupted terrorist movements and led to the neutralisation of several insurgents, further weakening their operational capability.
As a result, Ngoshe and the adjoining Gwoza axis remained calm and firmly under military control throughout the Sallah period, allowing residents to freely observe prayers and celebrate without any disruption effectively exposing the hollowness of the terrorists’ claims.
In a symbolic show of confidence and authority, troops led by the Commander 26 Task Force Brigade, NI Abdullahi, joined worshippers for Eid prayers at the Ngoshe Central Mosque, reinforcing public assurance of safety and security.
The Chief of Army Staff commended the resilience and cooperation of the local population, describing their support as vital to sustaining ongoing operational successes. The Army also urged the public to disregard and avoid amplifying terrorist propaganda, noting that such narratives are tools used by weakened groups to create panic and undermine security efforts.
Troops of Operation HADIN KAI, the statement added, will continue to sustain aggressive operations across the North-East to consolidate gains, eliminate residual threats, and ensure lasting peace and security in the region.
