By Peter Onyekachukwu 
…..As Nigerian Military Kills Scores, Destroys Insurgent Camps in Sambisa Forest
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Nigerian military, in a fierce retaliatory operation, has overrun several notorious terrorist enclaves in the Sambisa Forest of Borno State, killing scores of insurgents and destroying their hideouts.
This followed coordinated attacks by suspected Boko Haram fighters on military bases in Rann, Gajiram, and Dikwa on Tuesday, which left at least four soldiers dead. In response, troops under Operation Hadin Kai, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), launched a major offensive on Wednesday targeting insurgent strongholds in Garin Malam Ali, Garin Glucose, and Ukuba.
A senior military officer involved in the counter-attack described the operation as intense and dangerous, but ultimately successful. He revealed that it lasted over six hours from 6am on Wednesday until noon on Thursday.
“It was not an easy task, but we are proud of the outcome,” the officer, who requested anonymity, told Daily Trust. “We are battle-ready, and we must win this war. Many of the terrorists were neutralised, and some fled with gunshot wounds. They abandoned weapons and equipment used for making improvised explosive devices (IEDs).”
The operation was confirmed by Lieutenant-Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Chief Military Information Officer at the Headquarters of the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in N’Djamena, Chad.
“Yes, troops of North-East Operation Hadin Kai and the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) overran a terrorist hideout in Sambisa Forest on 15 May 2025,” Osoba stated.
“The terrorists fled, leaving behind arms, ammunition, and IED-making equipment. This is part of our ongoing efforts to degrade their capabilities and end insurgent activities in the region.”
Local sources also confirmed that several insurgents were killed during the operation, particularly in the Dikwa and Gajiram axis where the military repelled earlier attacks.
As the operation continues, military authorities have reassured Nigerians of their commitment to restoring peace and security in the North-East.
“We have suffered losses, but we will not relent,” the senior officer added. “With the support of Nigerians, we shall overcome this menace.”
The military has urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to security operatives.