By Ayo Kehinde
Troops of the Nigerian Army have neutralised a top Boko Haram leader, Abu Khalid, identified as the second-in-command of the terrorist group in the Sambisa Forest, alongside 10 other insurgents during a night operation in Borno State.
The successful operation was carried out on Saturday night, January 31, 2026, by troops of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, following credible intelligence.
A statement signed on Sunday by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force, noted that the operation marked another significant breakthrough in the ongoing counter-terrorism campaign.
The offensive took place barely 24 hours after troops eliminated another notorious commander, Julaibib, who operated within the Gujba axis of the Timbuktu Triangle.
“Troops of Sector 1, in conjunction with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force under Operation DESERT SANITY, made contact with terrorists at the Komala general area of Konduga Local Government Area during night offensives at about 11:00 p.m.,” the statement said.
Abu Khalid was described as a key figure within the Boko Haram hierarchy, responsible for coordinating operations and logistics within the Sambisa axis.
The military disclosed that following the encounter, troops recovered five AK-47 rifles, several magazines, bicycles, assorted logistics, food items, and large quantities of medical consumables.
Importantly, the statement noted that Nigerian troops recorded no casualties during the operation, which the military described as a well-executed and professional mission.
Troops’ morale remains high as clearance operations continue across the Sambisa Forest, Mandara Mountains, and the Timbuktu Triangle.
The Joint Task Force reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining the tempo of operations until all terrorist elements are neutralised and lasting peace is restored to the region.
The Military High Command commended the troops for their courage and dedication, urging them to maintain the current operational momentum to protect the lives and property of citizens in the North East.
