Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Security forces operating in northeastern Nigeria have dealt a significant blow to terrorist networks following a series of intelligence-driven operations in Borno State, where troops uncovered and neutralised an improvised explosive device (IED) along a major road and disrupted critical supply lines used by fighters of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).
According to a statement by the Joint Task Force (North East) under Operation Hadin Kai, soldiers on routine patrol along the Damboa–Komala axis discovered an IED planted on the route on December 17, 2025. The device was secured and safely detonated by the troops, averting what could have been a deadly explosion against both military personnel and civilians travelling the artery. The swift action ensured the safety of troops and road users in one of the region’s most volatile corridors.
In a related but separate operation, officers of the Joint Task Force also intercepted two pickup vans believed to be ferrying logistics supplies intended for ISWAP fighters in Borno. Acting on credible human intelligence, troops deployed at a checkpoint on the Maiduguri–Bama Road stopped the vehicles on December 19, 2025, and apprehended the drivers. The vans were found to contain a large cache of items suspected to support insurgent operations, including spare tyres and rims, ignition parts, flour and other foodstuffs, mattresses, clothing, mobile phones and cash — every category of material that could be used to sustain fighters in remote areas.
Military officials say the discovery and seizure of these supplies — alongside the earlier interception of suspected logistics couriers — has struck a critical node in the terror groups’ operational sustainment. Disrupting the movement of material support not only constrains the ability of ISWAP to resupply units in contested areas but also hampers mobility and planning for future attacks. (
The neutralised IED and interdicted supplies come as part of a broader push by the Nigerian Armed Forces, working under Operation Hadin Kai, to deny extremist groups freedom of action in northeastern Nigeria. In recent engagements, troops have also repelled direct assaults by ISWAP elements, including thwarting drone and mortar attacks on forward operating bases — actions that have forced insurgents to abandon weapons and munitions as they retreat.
Security analysts say that intelligence-led operations are critical in the evolving counter-insurgency strategy. Human and technical intelligence have enabled troops to anticipate and block movements of improvised explosive devices and logistical consignments before they reach their intended recipients. The collaboration of military units with local security volunteers such as the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) has further enhanced these efforts, allowing for better community reporting and situational awareness.
While the conflict in Borno remains fluid, these recent successes reflect a multi-layered approach by the Nigerian military that combines proactive patrolling, explosive ordnance disposal, and interdiction of support networks with conventional combat operations. Such combined measures are aimed not only at degrading the immediate capabilities of insurgent groups but also at creating conditions conducive to restoring security and facilitating civilian return to areas long affected by violence.
The armed forces have reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining operational momentum, ensuring that terrorists are denied safe havens and that supply chains are permanently disrupted. As investigations continue into the captured materials and detained suspects, officials say every intercepted route and device dismantled is a step toward reducing terror threats and bolstering long-term peace in the volatile North East. `
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