Army Offensive Forces Terrorists to Flee and Surrender in Borno

Relentless pressure on insurgent networks has continued to reshape the security landscape in Nigeria’s North-East, as coordinated military action disrupts long-standing militant strongholds and restores confidence among affected communities.

On Monday, January 12, 2026, at about 6:00 a.m. (WAT), troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation HADIN KAI and the ongoing phase of Operation Desert Sanity V recorded fresh operational successes across parts of Borno State. The coordinated ground and air-led operations took place in several contested areas of the state, where troops engaged fleeing insurgents, dismantled camps, and compelled a number of fighters to lay down their arms.

Military authorities confirmed that the sustained offensive led to the neutralization of several fighters, while 11 Boko Haram/ISWAP members surrendered during clearance operations. In addition, soldiers recovered a significant cache of weapons, ammunition, and logistical supplies, further weakening the operational capacity of the terror groups.

This latest development underscores the evolving strategy of the Nigerian military, which now places equal emphasis on kinetic action, intelligence-driven patrols, and psychological pressure aimed at forcing insurgents to abandon their enclaves.

How the Army Offensive Shifted the Balance in Borno

Over the past week, Nigerian Army units advanced steadily through difficult terrain, relying on timely intelligence and coordinated maneuvers. Rather than relying on isolated raids, commanders ordered a sequence of calculated pushes designed to deny insurgents freedom of movement.

As a result, several enclaves that previously served as staging grounds for attacks were cleared. Troops moved swiftly, secured access routes, and blocked escape corridors. Consequently, insurgents faced mounting pressure, limited supply lines, and dwindling morale.

Military sources explained that this approach forced many fighters to flee into less familiar territory. Others, faced with overwhelming force and the loss of command structures, chose surrender as their only viable option. This outcome aligns with the broader objectives of Operation HADIN KAI, which seeks not only to defeat armed groups but also to reduce their ability to regenerate.

Importantly, the army emphasized discipline and adherence to rules of engagement throughout the operation. Troops focused on protecting civilians and safeguarding liberated communities, while engineers assessed cleared areas for potential threats.

Cleared Enclaves and Recovered Materials in Borno State

Following the successful clearance operations, soldiers conducted systematic searches of abandoned camps. During these searches, they recovered assorted firearms, magazines, improvised equipment, and food supplies believed to have supported insurgent movements.

In addition, communication items and logistics materials were seized. These recoveries, according to security analysts, provide valuable intelligence that can disrupt future plots and reveal supply networks.

The army noted that denying insurgents access to such resources plays a critical role in sustaining long-term stability. Therefore, troops destroyed makeshift shelters and concealed storage sites to prevent reoccupation.

Residents in nearby communities reported reduced movement of armed elements following the operation. Although security forces continue to maintain a strong presence, locals expressed cautious optimism as patrols intensified and access roads reopened.

Army Offensive Forces Terrorists to Flee and Surrender in Borno: Strategic Impact

The significance of this operation extends beyond immediate battlefield gains. By maintaining constant pressure, the Nigerian Army limits the ability of terror groups to regroup or mount coordinated attacks.

Furthermore, the surrender of fighters highlights the effectiveness of combined military pressure and ongoing deradicalization messaging. Authorities reiterated that surrendering combatants would be treated in line with established protocols, including rehabilitation programs.

Security experts observe that each successful operation reduces the narrative strength of extremist groups. As their territorial control shrinks, recruitment becomes more difficult, while defections increase.

This pattern has emerged repeatedly in recent months, suggesting that sustained operations, rather than sporadic offensives, yield more durable results.

Coordination Under Operation HADIN KAI and Desert Sanity V

Operation HADIN KAI remains the central framework for counterinsurgency efforts in the North-East. Within this framework, Operation Desert Sanity V represents a focused phase aimed at clearing residual pockets of resistance.

Commanders highlighted the role of inter-service cooperation, particularly intelligence sharing and aerial surveillance. These elements allowed ground troops to move with confidence and avoid unnecessary risks.

Moreover, logistical planning ensured that soldiers remained well-supplied during extended patrols. This preparation, according to officers, prevented operational fatigue and sustained momentum.

The military leadership continues to stress adaptability, noting that insurgent tactics evolve constantly. Therefore, training and field feedback remain central to ongoing success.

Community Confidence and Civil-Military Relations

Beyond the tactical sphere, the army recognizes the importance of winning community trust. Following the operation, civil-military teams engaged local leaders to assess needs and address concerns.

Such engagement, officials say, encourages information sharing and reduces the likelihood of insurgent infiltration. In many cases, timely tips from residents have enabled preemptive action.

As normal activities gradually resume, security agencies plan to maintain patrols and establish observation points. This presence aims to reassure civilians and deter any attempted return by fleeing elements.

National Security Outlook and Policy Implications

The success recorded in Borno State feeds into Nigeria’s broader national security strategy. Policymakers continue to emphasize sustained funding, troop welfare, and intelligence modernization.

At the same time, authorities acknowledge that military action alone cannot resolve underlying challenges. Therefore, stabilization efforts, reconstruction, and social interventions remain essential.

Nonetheless, the recent gains demonstrate that determined action can reverse long-standing security threats when supported by clear objectives and consistent execution.

As operations continue, the Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and restoring lasting peace across affected regions.

Further Reading and Resources

For more updates on military operations, read our related report on Security updates Nigeria

Additional official information can be found via the Nigerian Army official platform and the Defence Headquarters.

As the situation develops, this platform will continue to provide verified, timely, and balanced coverage.

Army Offensive Forces Terrorists to Flee and Surrender in Borno reflects a broader shift toward sustained pressure and strategic coordination, marking another step in Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency.

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