Joint Task Force Eliminates 16 ISWAP Fighters in Lake Chad

On October 26, 2026, the Joint Task Force (North East), under Operation Hadin Kai, conducted coordinated air and artillery strikes in the South Lake Chad area, resulting in the deaths of 16 suspected Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters. The strikes occurred between 1am and 2am, targeting three insurgent enclaves in the Tunbunma general area, following intelligence reports of senior insurgent commanders' presence.

Captain Mohammed Goni, the Acting Military Information Officer at Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) in Maiduguri, confirmed the operation. Among those killed were senior figures Abu Zubiru, an Arab national, Baana Nglewa, and Jindullah Sadiq.

The strikes also left Abu Saleem, the Wali of Tunbunma, and seven other insurgents severely injured. The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations, emphasizing that insurgents would not find safe haven in the region and urging public support through credible information.