The Nigerian military has reported significant progress in its ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North-East, leading to the surrender of several prominent leaders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). This development comes as part of a broader offensive under the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI.
Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, confirmed that alongside the surrender of key commanders, 76 foot soldiers and some of their family members have also given up their weapons in the past week.
The military has chosen to keep the identities of the surrendered leaders confidential due to security considerations. Goni noted that this outcome is a direct result of sustained military pressure and intelligence-driven operations targeting ISWAP and its affiliates.
“Troops have accomplished substantial operational successes through consistent and effective strategies focused on degrading terrorist capabilities,” Goni stated. He further explained that the pressure exerted on these groups has resulted in significant changes in their command and logistics structures.
According to Goni, the surrendered individuals are currently being held in a secure location where they will undergo profiling and debriefing. This surrender is seen as a testament to the impact of Operation HADIN KAI, which aims to disrupt terrorist activities across the region.
The military affirmed its commitment to alleviating the threats posed by terrorism and restoring security in the North-East, indicating that operations would persist until all remaining insurgents are neutralized or compelled to surrender.