Army eliminates Boko Haram commander, Abba Alai in Borno

In a series of coordinated operations across Nigeria, the nation's military has achieved significant victories against terrorist groups, neutralizing key figures and recovering substantial caches of weapons and equipment. These operations, conducted in Borno, Zamfara, and Kwara States, demonstrate the Nigerian Army's commitment to eradicating insurgency and restoring peace to affected regions.
Borno State Operations
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, troops deployed in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State launched a decisive assault on a well-fortified terrorist stronghold. Acting on credible intelligence indicating that insurgents were regrouping to unleash havoc on villages around Fallujah and its environs, the troops executed a ruthless and coordinated operation. The assault resulted in the recovery of:
Further operations in Unguwan Abdullahi, a terrorist-infested settlement, led to the annihilation of terrorist life-support structures and the unearthing of stockpiles of food items buried underground, thereby depriving the terrorists of crucial sustenance. As troops advanced ahead of Garin Fallujah, they engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight, forcing them into a chaotic retreat.
In a separate but related operation, troops of the 21 Armoured Brigade, in collaboration with the 199 Special Forces Battalion and the Civilian Joint Task Force, eliminated a top Boko Haram commander, Abba Alai, also known as the Amirul Khahid of Alafa, in Garin Fallujah and Gwoza, Borno State. This operation was based on credible intelligence that insurgents were regrouping to launch attacks. The troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gun battle, overpowering them and causing heavy casualties. The following items were recovered during this operation:
Additionally, troops cleared Ukuba Forest, capturing an alarming assortment of heavy weaponry and military-grade equipment, including:
In Gwoza Local Government Area, troops blocked an escape route from Sambisa Forest and engaged Boko Haram fighters in Gobara village, forcing the terrorists into a chaotic retreat and leading to the recovery of additional weapons, including:
During this operation, troops also rescued an elderly woman who had been held hostage by the terrorists for 10 years.
Zamfara State Operations
In Zamfara State, troops engaged another group of terrorists, neutralizing one while the rest scattered in confusion, leaving behind two motorcycles.
Kwara State Operations
In Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, troops stormed a known kidnappers’ enclave in Karunji village, forcing the criminals to flee in terror upon sighting the advancing troops, leaving their captives behind. The successful rescue operation led to the recovery of:
Military Leadership Commendation
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their bravery and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to eliminating insurgency in Nigeria. He stated, "Our forces remain resolute in the fight against terrorism. We will continue to hunt down these criminal elements and restore lasting peace to the region."
These operations highlight the ongoing efforts of the Nigerian Army to combat terrorism and criminal activities across the country, ensuring the safety and security of its citizens.