Nigerian troops repel ISWAP attack on Mairari base in Borno

On 1 July 2026, insurgents from the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) launched a coordinated night assault on the Joint Task Force (North East) Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mairari in Guzamala Local Government Area, Borno State. Troops of Operation Hadin Kai’s CIB XIX engaged the attackers, killing a large number of insurgents and recovering AK‑47 rifles, magazines and RPG tubes. The military reported no civilian casualties, but two soldiers and one member of the Civilian Joint Task Force were killed.

The operation also uncovered two improvised explosive devices (IEDs) along the retreat route, which were safely detonated by reinforcement teams from Monguno. Acting Military Information Officer Captain Mohammed Goni said the successful defence demonstrates the force’s readiness and commitment to protecting the ongoing resettlement of more than 950 households returning to Mairari.

The base remains under full military control, and forces continue offensive operations to limit ISWAP movement in the northeastern region.