Troops of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), have repelled an attempted assault by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters on a Forward Operating Base in Gajiram, Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State.
According to the Theatre Command, the attack occurred at about 12:20 a.m. on August 10, 2026, when a large group of ISWAP fighters attempted to overrun the military position.
The troops responded with sustained fire, forcing the attackers to withdraw after suffering casualties. Several terrorists were reportedly neutralised during the confrontation, while soldiers recovered weapons, ammunition and communication equipment from the area.
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The military said a post-engagement review of surveillance footage also showed several casualties being evacuated by retreating ISWAP fighters. Further assessment of the footage and recovered items is ongoing.
The attack was not without losses on the military side. The Theatre Command disclosed that a small number of troops sustained injuries after part of the defensive position was temporarily breached. Some military vehicles and combat equipment were also damaged by rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) fire.
The injured personnel were subsequently airlifted and are said to be stable and receiving medical treatment.
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Following the engagement, troops remained deployed around the Forward Operating Base and adjoining areas to maintain control of the territory, monitor terrorist movements and prevent another attempt to attack the position.
The incident highlights the continuing threat posed by ISWAP in parts of Borno State, particularly around areas where the group has sought to attack military positions and disrupt security operations.
The Theatre Command urged residents of Gajiram and surrounding communities to remain calm and continue their lawful activities. Residents were also encouraged to report suspicious movements or activities to security agencies to support ongoing intelligence operations.
The military said exploitation of the operational area and further assessment of ISWAP casualties and activities remain underway.
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The latest engagement comes as Nigerian forces continue sustained operations against ISWAP and other insurgent groups across the North-East, with intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated ground operations forming key elements of the military’s counter-insurgency strategy.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining pressure on ISWAP and preventing the group from establishing freedom of movement or operational dominance in the region.
