Borno: Military Forces Take Down Prominent Boko Haram Leader Abu Khalid Along with 10 Accomplices in Sambisa Forest

Troops involved in Operation HADIN KAI have killed a prominent Boko Haram/ISWAP leader, Abu Khalid, and ten of his associates during a night operation in the Sambisa Forest.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Headquarters of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, released a statement on Sunday, February 1, 2026, detailing the operation.

The statement highlighted that Khalid was an important figure in the terrorist organization, responsible for coordinating operations and logistics in the Sambisa area.

This latest operation follows closely on the heels of the elimination of Julaibib, a notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, in the Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, which occurred just a day prior.

The report stated, "Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have achieved another significant success with the neutralization of Abu Khalid, noted as the Second-in-Command of Boko Haram in the Sambisa Forest, alongside ten additional terrorists during a night operation in Borno State."

The statement further reported that shortly after the operation commenced, troops came into contact with the terrorists in the Komala area of Konduga Local Government Area around 11:00 p.m., while executing night offensives. Khalid's crucial role in coordinating operations and logistics was reiterated in the statement.

As a result of the successful engagement, personnel recovered five AK-47 rifles, several magazines, various bicycles, logistical supplies, food items, and substantial medical supplies.

No casualties were reported among the troops during this operation, and their morale remains high as they continue clearance operations across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, Timbuktu Triangle, and other known hideouts of Boko Haram and ISWAP in the North East region.

The Joint Task Force (North East) has reiterated its commitment to maintaining the operational momentum until all terrorist factions are eradicated, ensuring lasting peace and economic stability in the region.

The Military High Command extended commendations to the troops for their sacrifices and commitment in the ongoing fight against terrorism and related criminal activities in the North East, encouraging them to maintain this operational pace.