In the early hours of Friday, May 23, 2025, the dark veil of terror that once hovered over Damboa in Borno State was torn apart by the courage and precision of Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), as they launched a successful counter-offensive against a band of ISWAP/Boko Haram insurgents.
At approximately 1:00am, the restless calm of the night was broken when a formation of enemy combatants was sighted maneuvering toward military positions in Damboa. With the reflexes of seasoned warriors and the resolve of defenders of the motherland, OPHK troops immediately unleashed sustained indirect fire on the approaching terrorists, effectively halting their advance.
The terrorists, in their characteristic fashion, attempted to mount an offensive on the Brigade's location, but were met with a decisive response. Air support was swiftly deployed to reinforce the ground troops, turning the tide of battle with surgical precision. For two grueling hours, the soldiers held their ground with superior firepower and tactical discipline, forcing the insurgents into a hasty and chaotic retreat.
By the end of the operation, 16 terrorists had been neutralized, with several others fleeing with gunshot wounds. A pursuit operation is currently underway to ensure those who escaped do not regroup or pose further threat.
Although an ammunition storage area sustained impact during the exchange, troops acted quickly to contain the situation, averting any further escalation or loss. The operation not only demonstrated the military’s superior coordination but also sent a resounding message to terrorist elements: the era of impunity is over.
Operation Hadin Kai continues to reaffirm its commitment to restoring peace and stability in the Northeast, while the Nigerian Armed Forces remain ever vigilant, ever gallant, and ever ready to defend the nation’s sovereignty.