A coordinated military operation involving Nigerian troops and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has reportedly dealt a major blow to ISWAP fighters in Borno State, with 21 suspected terrorists said to have been killed during an airstrike.
The operation targeted a suspected insurgent base in Arege, located in Kukawa Local Government Area, after intelligence reports identified the area as an active hideout for terrorist activities.
Security analyst and counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama, quoting military sources, disclosed that the mission was launched after extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance and reconnaissance operations confirmed the presence of armed militants at the location.
According to the sources, the camp was allegedly being used by ISWAP members as a planning centre for attacks and other operations across communities within the Lake Chad region.
The strike reportedly destroyed key positions within the enclave and eliminated 21 suspected fighters, disrupting the group’s activities in the area.
Military officials described the mission as part of ongoing cooperation between Nigerian security forces and the United States in efforts to combat terrorism and dismantle extremist networks operating in the North-East.
They noted that the operation was carefully planned using intelligence-based strategies to ensure accurate targeting of terrorist elements while reducing the group’s ability to regroup.
The sources added that the latest success demonstrates the growing partnership between Nigeria and its international allies in confronting security threats linked to insurgent groups.
They expressed confidence that the operation would further weaken terrorist movements around the Lake Chad Basin, an area that has remained a major hotspot for extremist activities and attacks on local communities.