In a major counter-terrorism breakthrough, Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai have killed a top Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Amir Abu Fatima, and at least 60 other insurgents in separate operations in Borno State.

The Nigerian Army, in a statement on Friday via its official Facebook page, said the operations were part of intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist networks in the North-East.

Abu Fatima, who had a N100m bounty on his head, was neutralised in a precision strike in Kukawa, northern Borno, during a targeted raid led by Special Forces.

The military said the strike followed credible intelligence on the terrorist leader’s location and movements.

“During an intense exchange of fire, Abu Fatima was fatally wounded. His deputy, several explosives experts, and other fighters were also eliminated,” the Army stated.

Weapons recovered from the operation included AK-47 rifles, ammunition, explosive materials, and other combat equipment, according to the Army.

It noted that the mission was executed without any casualties among Nigerian troops.

In a separate coordinated land and air offensive carried out in the early hours of Friday in Bita, southern Borno, the military said it neutralised at least 60 terrorists after engaging their hideouts in a fierce battle.

“These operations represent a significant blow to the leadership and operational capabilities of Boko Haram and ISWAP in the region,” the Army said.

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