Two senior commanders of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) have surrendered to troops of the Nigerian Army following sustained military operations in the North East.
According to a statement from the Headquarters Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai (Operation HADIN KAI), the terrorists—identified as Ismail Mohammed and Abu Umar—gave themselves up on June 8, 2026 due to intense pressure from ongoing military offensives.
Military officials stated that both individuals are currently in custody undergoing profiling and interrogation. Intelligence reports indicate that Ismail Mohammed previously worked closely with senior ISWAP leadership, including Baa Shuwa, and had detailed knowledge of the group’s structure and operations.
Abu Umar was described as a specialist in explosives, reportedly involved in the development and maintenance of vehicle-borne improvised explosive devices and other combat equipment used by the group.
The army also confirmed that another high-ranking ISWAP member, Mohammed Khalifa, believed to be part of the group’s Shura Council, was neutralized during joint military operations in the theatre.
Authorities noted that the surrender of the commanders represents a significant setback for the terrorist organization, weakening its operational capacity and disrupting its leadership structure. They further attributed the development to continuous military pressure and coordinated strikes across insurgent strongholds in the region.
Operation Hadin Kai reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining offensive operations aimed at dismantling terrorist networks and restoring stability across affected communities.
