By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Joint Task Force North East, have successfully repelled a major terrorist attack on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Kangar, located at Mallam Fatori in Borno State, in the early hours of Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
According to an official statement signed by the Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the attack was launched around 4:30 a.m. by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists who attempted a coordinated assault using armed drones and mortar fire against the base’s defensive positions.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba disclosed that the troops, supported by reinforcements from the Battalion Main Force under Sector 3, displayed exceptional gallantry and tactical superiority, successfully thwarting the assault. Despite the terrorists’ initial use of drones and indirect fire, the soldiers held their ground, engaging the attackers in an intense gun duel that lasted several hours.
He explained that close air support from Nigerien Fighter Ground Attack platforms played a crucial role in the encounter, as the terrorists were overwhelmed by the superior firepower and coordination of the joint force. The insurgents were forced to retreat in disarray into the waterways of the Tumbuns, evacuating several of their casualties.
A post-battle exploitation of the area confirmed the neutralisation of six terrorists and the recovery of several weapons and equipment, including five AK-47 rifles, eight AK-47 magazines, 258 rounds of 7.62mm x 39 ammunition, five RPG bombs, four armed drone bombs, five 36-type hand grenades, two bandoliers, and one Android phone.
Follow-on air interdiction missions by the Nigerian Air Force, conducted in conjunction with the Nigerien Air Force, targeted the retreating terrorists and further neutralised several more fighters during their escape.
Lieutenant Colonel Uba added that a few personnel of the Joint Task Force and some members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) sustained minor injuries during the engagement. They were promptly evacuated by Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) platforms for medical attention and are reported to be in stable condition.
He further noted that the MNJTF also provided Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) support throughout the engagement, enhancing situational awareness and precision for the ground troops. Exploitation operations are ongoing in the waterways and adjoining areas to track fleeing terrorists and deny them freedom of movement.
The statement affirmed that the morale and fighting efficiency of the troops remain high as they continue to maintain operational dominance in the general area.
Meanwhile, the Military High Command has commended the gallant troops for their resilience, courage, and professionalism in the face of adversity. It reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to restoring lasting peace and security across the North East through sustained and coordinated operations.
“The Nigerian Armed Forces remain steadfast in their mission to eradicate terrorism and ensure the safety of all citizens. Our troops continue to demonstrate courage and dedication in defending the nation,” the statement added.
