Nigerian Army Eliminates Wanted Terrorist Commander Abba Alai, Rescues Captives

In a major counter-terrorism victory, the Nigerian Army has eliminated notorious terrorist commander Abba Alai and rescued several captives. Read more about the operation and its impact on national security.

Alai, who was also referred to as the Amirul Khahid of Alafa, lost his life amid intense gun battles in Bama and Gwoza, located in Borno State. These fierce firefights lasted for over four hours and resulted in the neutralization of many other terrorists as well.

The military operation led to the discovery of a substantial stockpile of lethal weapons. The seized arms included 11 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs, 760 rounds of linked ammunition in the 7.62mm caliber, 220 rounds of linked ammunition in the 12.7mm caliber, an AK-47 rifle, and 440 rounds of ammunition measuring 7.62mm by 54mm.

The troops additionally seized General Purpose Machine Guns (GPMGs), a Mowag armored tank engine, a QJC W85 anti-aircraft gun, three light machine guns, an M60 machine gun, and other items.

In another operation in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State, soldiers successfully rescued 10 hostages, comprising seven women and three children. The rescue mission freed them from the control of a notorious terrorist leader who ultimately surrendered to the troops. As part of his surrender, he also relinquished two AK-47 rifles.

In Delta State, troops were deployed and successfully apprehended a prominent IPOB/ESN commander named Ekene Ifeanyi at his hideout in the Issele Asagba Forest within Oshimili South Local Government Area.

A statement from the Army confirming the offensive declared, “In an unyielding and intense campaign against terrorism, brave troops of the Nigerian Army have once again shown their unwavering commitment to destroying terrorist strongholds, delivering a significant setback to their operations.”

The most recent offensives, carried out with precision and immense firepower, plunged the terrorists into complete chaos. This compelled them to leave behind a large stockpile of weapons, ammunition, and explosives as they escaped in haste.

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, troops stationed in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State executed a decisive and coordinated attack on a heavily fortified terrorist base. This operation was initiated after receiving reliable intelligence that insurgents were regrouping to launch attacks on villages surrounding Fallujah and nearby areas.

A fierce gun battle raged for hours as the troops overpowered the terrorists, effectively neutralizing several and systematically disarming explosives that had been placed along their path to the camp.

Following the attack, troops discovered a remarkable stockpile of lethal weapons. This included 11 rocket-propelled grenade (RPG) bombs, 760 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 220 rounds of 12.7mm linked ammunition, an AK-47 rifle, and 440 rounds of 7.62x54mm ammunition.

The troops carried out a comprehensive clearance operation in Unguwan Abdullahi, a settlement known for terrorist activity. They destroyed all life-support structures used by the terrorists and uncovered hidden stockpiles of food items buried underground, which deprived the terrorists of essential supplies.

As the troops advanced beyond Garin Fallujah, they encountered the terrorists in an intense firefight, compelling them to retreat chaotically.

During the operation, a notorious terrorist leader known as Abba Alai (Amirul Khahid of Alafa), who had been on security watchlists for an extended period as a high-value target, was neutralized.

The operation resulted in the recovery of several items, including an AK-47 rifle with a corresponding magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, a radio set, a DSHK heavy machine gun barrel, and one motorcycle. Additionally, assorted medical supplies were also found.

The troops continued to clear Ukuba Forest, seizing a concerning array of heavy weaponry and military-grade equipment.

The items listed are: two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), a Mowag armored tank engine, a heavy-duty vehicle engine block with components, one QJC W85 anti-aircraft gun, three light machine guns, one M60 machine gun, two RPG launcher tubes and one QJC cradle. Additionally included are an HK21 machine gun and a G3 rifle magazine. Finally there is also it includesyone fabricated 60mm mortar tube along withs well as three Improvised Explosive Device (IED) cylinders .

In a different operation, troops strategically stationed in the Gwoza Local Government Area as part of a blocking force to stop insurgents from fleeing Sambisa Forest dealt another significant blow to the terrorists.

During the coordinated offensive in Gobara village, the insurgents abandoned their weapons and fled in panic.

A thorough search of the area resulted in finding 57 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 30 rounds of special 7.62mm ammunition, three AK-47 rifle magazines, a locally made dane gun, and two prototype firearms believed to be used for terrorist training.

In a touching turn of events, troops also freed an elderly woman who had been held captive by the terrorists for a decade.

At the same time, based on credible intelligence, troops in Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State raided a notorious kidnappers’ hideout in Shirkaki village. There, they captured a prime suspect who had been on the security watchlist for an extended period.

The rapid and accurate operation resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two magazines for these rifles, one pump-action shotgun, four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and six cartridges.

In Unguwan Baki village, located in the Faskari Local Government Area of Katsina State, terrorists attempting an attack encountered superior firepower. This forced them to abandon their motorcycles and escape into the forest.

Additionally, in an unusual yet significant event, a senior terrorist leader from the Jibia local government area of Katsina State voluntarily surrendered to military forces and handed over two AK-47 rifles.

He also released 10 captives, including seven women and three children, indicating his choice to leave behind a life of terror and pursue peace.

In Zamfara State, troops confronted another group of terrorists, neutralizing one while the rest scattered in confusion and abandoned two motorcycles.

Troops stationed in Niger State also confronted the terrorists in an intense battle, forcing them to retreat into the dense forests of Dakwala and Chikuba.

Following this, troops initiated an extensive clearance operation, retrieving 36 abandoned motorcycles and demolishing all terrorist hideouts in the area.

In the Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State, troops raided a well-known kidnappers’ hideout in Karunji village. Upon seeing the approaching forces, the criminals fled in fear, abandoning their captives.

The rescue operation was a success, resulting in the recovery of a locally manufactured pistol, six Dane guns, and three motorcycles.

In a notable advancement in counterterrorism efforts, forces stationed in Delta State successfully apprehended Ekene Ifeanyi, a prominent IPOB/ESN commander. He was captured at his hideout within the Issele Asagba Forest of Oshimili South Local Government Area.

The suspect, previously listed on the security watchlist, played a significant role in setting up IPOB/ESN terrorist cells in Delta State. During questioning, he admitted to being a senior operative of IPOB.

Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, praised the troops’ resilience and reaffirmed his commitment to prioritizing their welfare. He emphasized that they deserve top-notch support for their selfless service.

He also confirmed that the Nigerian Army is steadfast in its commitment to eliminating terrorism and crime throughout the country.

With steadfast determination, unparalleled strength, and a persistent drive, the troops will persist in seeking out any remaining adversaries of the nation to ensure that peace and stability are maintained throughout the country.