Nigerian troops have killed four senior members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), including a member of its Shura Council and two high-ranking Arab fighters, during an operation in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State.
Gatekeepers News reports that the operation was carried out on October 31, 2026, after insurgents launched an attack on military positions in the area.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by Captain Mohammed Goni, Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation Hadin Kai.
Goni identified those killed as Abu Hajara, a high-profile member of ISWAP’s Shura Council, and Abul Walid, a prominent commander and close associate of Ba Shuwa, the group’s overall Wali (leader).
He added that two other high-ranking Arab fighters were also killed during the encounter.
According to the military, troops deployed to Kukawa repelled the insurgents’ attack using coordinated ground operations and air support from the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.
The troops also recovered several weapons, ammunition and communication devices following the engagement.
Goni described the operation as a significant setback for ISWAP’s leadership and operational capacity.
He said, “The successful engagement further demonstrates the combat readiness, vigilance and superior firepower of Operation HADIN KAI troops in sustaining pressure on terrorist elements across the theatre.”
The military spokesperson said the latest attack on troops’ positions in Kukawa occurred barely three days after another engagement in Buni Yadi, where 55 terrorists were reportedly killed.
Those killed in the Buni Yadi operation included three identified commanders: Ali Mandara Abba Gajiri, also known as Munzir; Habu Ikkima Nakif Yana Faruk; and Commander Gogore.
The military said the successive operations formed part of ongoing efforts to weaken terrorist networks and sustain pressure on insurgents operating across the North-East.
The Theatre Command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting residents and continuing military operations against terrorist groups in the region.
