Fresh Nigeria-US Airstrikes Eliminate 21 ISIS/ISWAP Terrorists

A fresh counterterrorism operation jointly executed by the Nigerian military under Operation Hadin Kai and the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has reportedly resulted in the deaths of 21 suspected fighters linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Borno State.

According to security sources, the precision airstrike was carried out on May 30 in Arege, located within Kukawa Local Government Area, following extensive intelligence gathering, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities that confirmed the presence of insurgents in the area.

Reports indicate that the targeted location served as a strategic base where the terrorists were allegedly coordinating operations and planning attacks across parts of the Lake Chad region. The operation was said to have significantly disrupted the group’s activities and reduced its operational capacity.

Security officials familiar with the mission disclosed that the strike was carefully planned and intelligence-led to ensure maximum impact on the terrorist network while minimizing collateral damage.

The operation forms part of ongoing collaborative efforts between Nigerian security forces and international partners aimed at dismantling terrorist cells, destroying their hideouts, and restricting their movement across the North-East region.

Military sources further noted that the successful mission underscores the strengthening partnership between Nigeria and its allies in the sustained fight against terrorism. Observers believe the latest offensive could further weaken insurgent elements operating around the Lake Chad Basin, where terrorist remnants have continued to launch attacks on vulnerable communities despite ongoing military pressure.