Troops of Operation Hadin Kai in the early hours of Wednesday successfully repelled an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters in Mallam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State, killing more than 60 insurgents.
The incident was disclosed in a statement shared on the Nigerian Army’s official Facebook page, @HQ Nigerian Army, noting that the assault occurred around 12:50 a.m.
“The Nigerian Army has once again demonstrated its unwavering resolve to defeat terrorism, successfully repelling a coordinated night attack by insurgents in Mallam Fatori, Abadam Local Government Area of Borno State.
“The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Wednesday 18 March 2026 at about 12:50 a.m., saw terrorists suspected to be members of Boko Haram/ISWAP advancing from the Duguri general area on foot, supported by multiple armed drones, in a bid to breach the 68 Battalion Main Defensive Area.”
According to the statement, the advancing insurgents were quickly detected by alert troops, who responded with superior firepower.
“In a well-coordinated operation, troops in synergy with supporting air components engaged the attackers decisively, neutralising over 60 terrorist fighters, including some notorious commanders” It said.
The statement added that the heavy exchange of gunfire forced the remaining insurgents to retreat in disarray towards the Arege general area.
“Troops have since commenced exploitation operations to pursue and eliminate the fleeing terrorists, while Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platforms are being deployed to dominate the adversary’s withdrawal routes and prevent regrouping” the statement added.
It further emphasised that the Nigerian Army remains determined to sustain its offensive against terrorist groups, while assuring citizens of continued efforts to protect lives and property nationwide.
The attack is one of several recent assaults targeting military positions in the state. It was also noted that troops had earlier repelled coordinated attacks on bases in Ajiri Cross, Damboa, and Baga areas.