Nigerian Army Repels ISWAP Attack in Damboa Town, Kills 26 Terrorists

Strategic Insights -

The Nigerian Army reported that troops of Operation HADIN KAI successfully repelled a coordinated terrorist attack by members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Damboa town in Borno State. The attack resulted in the death of 26 ISWAP members, with two Nigerian soldiers losing their lives in the process. The incident occurred in the early hours of Thursday 23 May 2025, near the Azir Bridge axis in the 25 Task Force Brigade Area of Responsibility.

Key Takeaways:

  • The ISWAP terrorists launched a fierce attack on the Azir Bridge axis in the 25 Task Force Brigade Area of Responsibility, but were met with a robust counter-attack by the Nigerian Army.
  • Troops of the Nigerian Army responded with counter-attacks and artillery fire, while the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided airstrikes, resulting in the neutralization of at least 16 ISWAP fighters.
  • The Nigerian Army is committed to safeguarding the nation's territorial integrity and winning all land battles against terrorism.
  • The troops of Operation HADIN KAI pledged to sustain attacks on terrorist groups and maintain high morale during counter-insurgency operations across the Northeast.
  • Lieutenant Colonel Ajemasu Jingina, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 7 Division, stated that the ISWAP terrorists were neutralized as a result of the robust defence mounted by the Nigerian Army.
  • The incident resulted in the death of two brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in line of duty.

Statistics:

  • 26 ISWAP members killed in the attack.
  • 16 ISWAP fighters neutralized by the Nigerian Army.
  • 2 Nigerian soldiers killed in the incident.
  • At least 25 Task Force Brigade Area of Responsibility is where the attack occurred.

Sources:

  • "Nigerian Army Repels Terrorist Attack in Borno, Kills 26", Nigerian Army, 2025 (date may vary)