Adedokun Waliyu 
The Nigerian Army has announced a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism in North-East Nigeria, confirming the killing of senior ISWAP leader Mohammed Khalifa and the surrender of two top commanders, Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar, to troops of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State.
According to the military, the two commanders surrendered on June 8, 2026, in the Mangari area of the Lake Chad region, where they reportedly held strategic positions within the terrorist group.
Army spokesman Lt. Col. Haruna Sani said Ismail Mohammed was a close associate of a senior ISWAP leader and had extensive knowledge of the group’s structure and operations. Abu Umar was described as an explosives expert responsible for producing and maintaining vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and other combat equipment.
Information obtained during their interrogation revealed that Mohammed Khalifa, a member of the ISWAP Shurah Council, was recently killed during joint military operations.
The Army described the surrender of the two commanders as a significant setback for the terrorist organisation, noting that their experience, influence and technical expertise made them valuable members of the group.
Military authorities said the development highlights the effectiveness of sustained ground and air offensives by Operation Hadin Kai and its partners. They added that continued pressure on terrorist hideouts has weakened operational networks, reduced morale among fighters and encouraged more insurgents to surrender.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining offensive operations across the North-East, stressing that efforts will continue to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and stability to affected communities.
Operation Hadin Kai is Nigeria’s counter-insurgency operation established to combat Boko Haram and ISWAP. Recent operations across the Lake Chad Basin, Sambisa Forest and other strongholds have resulted in the elimination of several terrorist commanders, destruction of camps and the surrender of numerous fighters and their family members.
