Nigerian troops attached to the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) successfully repelled coordinated terrorist attacks on two fronts in the early hours of Friday, March 13, 2026.
The engagements took place at Azir Bridge in Sector 2 and the border town of Banki in Sector 1. Despite what military officials described as a “desperate” attempt by insurgents to overrun the positions, the attackers were forced into a chaotic retreat following a heavy exchange of fire.
According to military sources, the terrorists advanced in large numbers, hoping to catch the units off guard. However, they were met with immediate resistance from vigilant ground troops who utilised superior tactical positioning to break the assault formations.
“The terrorists were met with swift and overwhelming resistance from vigilant troops,” stated Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for OPHK. “Demonstrating superior tactical awareness, our troops launched well-coordinated spoiling attacks that forced the enemy into disarray.”
The ground operation received a significant boost from the Nigerian Air Force. Close air support from the Air Component of OPHK reportedly “contributed significantly” to the defeat of the attackers, hunting down fleeing remnants of the insurgent group into the surrounding bushes.
The Nigerian Army also used the opportunity to address recent rumours circulating on social media regarding the stability of the region. Officials emphasised that the success of this morning’s operation serves as a direct rebuttal to claims of military setbacks.
“These failed attacks clearly contradict the misleading propaganda and false reports circulating on some online media platforms,” Lt. Col. Uba added. “Troops remain firmly in control of the locations and continue to dominate the operational environment with high morale.”
The military command reiterated that the Joint Task Force remains resolute in its mission to eliminate the threat of insurgency in the North-East. While no specific casualty figures for the terrorists were released, the Army confirmed that the areas remain under full military control with sustained offensive patrols ongoing.
Operation HADIN KAI has reassured the public that it remains committed to “restoring lasting peace” and urged citizens to rely on official channels for updates regarding security operations. #Securitynewsalert.com
