Nigerian Troops Hit Boko Haram Splinter Groups in Niger
Troops of the Nigerian Army have dealt a major blow to Boko Haram splinter groups operating in Niger State after clearing several settlements in Shiroro Local Government Area during a sustained clearance operation.
The operation, carried out by troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army, targeted communities long used as operational bases by insurgent elements linked to Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad and the ANSARU faction.
Military sources said the offensive, which began on January 20, was aimed at dismantling terror cells, neutralising improvised explosive devices and denying insurgents freedom of movement in the North Central region.
Despite facing difficult terrain and mechanical challenges, including faults in Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and Armoured Fighting Vehicles, the troops pressed on with the operation.
Settlements cleared during the exercise included Galadima Kogo, Danpkala, Angwan Shawo, Kaure, Onagbi, Iburo, Kudogo, Kori, Kampani Kpakari, Chigwamya, Chikuba and Nabwi.
At Nabwi, the troops reportedly encountered a roadside improvised explosive device, followed by enemy fire. The device was successfully neutralised, while the insurgents were forced to retreat after troops responded with superior firepower.
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The operation was supported by Nigerian Air Force assets, which provided close air support, while unmanned aerial vehicles deployed by the Niger State Government aided surveillance and reconnaissance throughout the mission.
Security sources said Shiroro Local Government Area had become a key operational hub for Boko Haram splinter groups seeking to expand their influence from the North East into the North West and North Central regions.
According to the sources, senior terror commanders, including Saddiku, Umar Taraba, Kabiru Doctor and Mamman Kabir, had used the Allawa–Madawaki axis and surrounding settlements to establish clandestine cells, smuggle weapons, plant IEDs and impose illegal levies on local communities.
The latest military action, the sources said, has disrupted insurgents’ logistics networks and blocked strategic corridors linking Niger State to Zamfara, Kaduna and Kogi states.
Military authorities stressed that sustained clearance operations, backed by intelligence-led surveillance and air support, remain critical to preventing the regrouping of terror elements and restoring civilian confidence.
“The ongoing operations in Shiroro will not only deny insurgents a safe haven but also prevent Boko Haram splinter groups from consolidating influence across key routes connecting the North East, North West and North Central,” a security source said.
The Army said the operation forms part of broader efforts to stabilise the region and create conditions for displaced residents to return to their communities safely.
By PRNigeria
