In a significant victory for Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Air Component of the Nigerian Armed Forces, successfully repelled a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Boko Haram insurgents in Damboa, Borno State. The operation, which took place in the early hours of May 22, 2025, resulted in the neutralization of 16 terrorists, marking another blow to the insurgent groups that have plagued Nigeria’s northeast for over a decade.
The Attack and Response in Damboa
The incident unfolded around 1:00 a.m. on May 22, 2025, when a combined force of ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters launched a daring assault on two key locations in Damboa: the Azir Bridge axis and the 25 Task Force Brigade’s position. Damboa, a strategic town in southern Borno State, has long been a hotspot for insurgent activities due to its proximity to the Sambisa Forest, a known stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP factions. The attackers aimed to overrun military positions, likely seeking to disrupt security operations and assert dominance in the region.
However, the Nigerian Army’s Operation Hadin Kai, a multi-dimensional counter-insurgency campaign, was well-prepared for the assault. Troops stationed in Damboa quickly mobilized, engaging the insurgents in a fierce firefight that lasted approximately two hours. The ground forces, supported by precise air interdictions from the Air Component, demonstrated remarkable coordination and resilience. The air support played a critical role in disrupting the terrorists’ advance, forcing them to retreat under heavy fire.
By the end of the encounter, the Nigerian Army reported the neutralization of 16 insurgents, with their bodies recovered from the battlefield. Several others are believed to have fled the scene, likely carrying injuries that could further weaken their operational capacity. The operation was not without challenges, as an ammunition storage area was struck during the clash, sparking a fire. However, the troops swiftly contained the situation, preventing further damage and ensuring the safety of critical assets.
Strategic Significance of the Operation
The neutralization of 16 ISWAP/Boko Haram fighters in Damboa is more than a tactical victory; it underscores the Nigerian military’s growing effectiveness in countering insurgent threats. Operation Hadin Kai, launched in 2021 to replace earlier counter-terrorism initiatives like Operation Lafiya Dole, has adopted a more aggressive and proactive approach to dismantling terrorist networks in the Lake Chad Basin region. The operation combines ground offensives, air support, intelligence-driven raids, and community engagement to weaken the insurgents’ hold on Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
The Damboa operation highlights several key aspects of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy:
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Enhanced Coordination Between Forces: The seamless integration of ground troops and air support was pivotal in repelling the attack. The Air Component’s timely intervention disrupted the insurgents’ momentum, demonstrating the importance of joint operations in modern warfare.
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Intelligence and Preparedness: The fact that the troops were able to respond swiftly to a pre-dawn attack suggests improved intelligence-gathering and early warning systems. This is a critical development, as ISWAP and Boko Haram have often relied on surprise attacks to overwhelm security forces.
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Psychological Impact: The heavy losses inflicted on the insurgents serve as a psychological blow, potentially demoralizing their ranks and discouraging future large-scale attacks. The recovery of 16 bodies also provides tangible evidence of the military’s success, which can bolster public confidence in the ongoing campaign.
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Control of Strategic Areas: Damboa’s proximity to the Sambisa Forest makes it a critical battleground. By holding the line in this area, the Nigerian Army prevents insurgents from using it as a staging ground for attacks on civilian populations or military outposts.
Conclusion
The successful repulsion of the ISWAP/Boko Haram attack in Damboa on May 22, 2025, is a testament to the courage, professionalism, and coordination of Nigeria’s Operation Hadin Kai troops. By neutralizing 16 terrorists and thwarting a potentially devastating assault, the Nigerian Army has sent a clear message: the insurgents’ days of operating with impunity are numbered. However, the road to lasting peace in the northeast remains long and fraught with challenges. Sustained military efforts, coupled with comprehensive strategies to address the root causes of insurgency, will be crucial for securing a brighter future for Borno State and beyond.
As Operation Hadin Kai continues its campaign, the people of Nigeria look to their armed forces with hope and expectation. Each victory, like the one in Damboa, brings the nation closer to a time when the specter of terrorism no longer looms over its communities. For now, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai stand as a bulwark against chaos, defending the nation with unwavering resolve.
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