Nigerian Troops Eliminate 16 ISWAP Fighters in Lake Chad

On October 26, 2026, Nigerian troops operating under Operation Hadin Kai conducted coordinated air and artillery strikes in the Tunbunma area of South Lake Chad, resulting in the deaths of 16 suspected Islamic State West Province (ISWAP) fighters. The operation took place between 1 am and 2 am, utilizing both air assets and ground weapon systems based on prior intelligence.

Among those killed were Abu Zubiru, an Arab national, and his associates Baana Nglewa and Jindullah Sadiq. A Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the neutralization of 16 ISWAP fighters across three targeted locations.

Additionally, Abu Saleem, the Wali of Tunbunma, sustained severe injuries during the strikes, and seven other fighters were reported wounded. The Joint Task Force stated that this operation reaffirms their commitment to counter-terrorism efforts in Nigeria's North East and called for public support in providing credible information to aid these operations.