(DDM) – Troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, have successfully repelled a coordinated terrorist attack along the Maiduguri–Damboa Main Supply Route in Borno State.
A credible military source disclosed that the attack occurred at about 3:10 pm on Monday, December 22, and was swiftly countered by troops deployed under Operation HADIN KAI.
The source told the News Agency of Nigeria that the terrorists attempted to disrupt military and civilian movement along the strategic route.
The Maiduguri–Damboa Main Supply Route is one of the most critical roads in Borno State.
It serves as a vital link between Maiduguri, the state capital, and several communities in southern Borno.
The road is frequently targeted by insurgents seeking to isolate communities and ambush security forces.
According to the military source, the terrorists launched the attack in a coordinated manner.
They reportedly attempted to overwhelm troops through multiple points along the route.
However, the troops responded with superior firepower and tactical coordination.
The source said the attackers were forced to retreat after sustaining casualties.
Troops were said to have maintained firm control of the area after the encounter.
Security patrols were immediately intensified along the route following the attack.
The military source confirmed that no civilian casualties were recorded during the incident.
He added that normal movement was restored shortly after the operation.
The successful repulsion of the attack was described as a significant boost to ongoing counterinsurgency efforts.
Operation HADIN KAI is the Nigerian military’s flagship operation against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province, ISWAP, in the North East.
The operation has recorded several gains in recent months through sustained offensives and patrols.
Troops have continued to target terrorist enclaves across Sambisa Forest and the Lake Chad region.
The Maiduguri–Damboa axis has remained a flashpoint due to its strategic importance.
Insurgents have historically used the surrounding terrain to stage ambushes.
In the past, attacks along the route have led to temporary closures and security concerns.
The military has since adopted a more aggressive posture to secure the corridor.
This includes constant patrols, checkpoints, and intelligence-led operations.
Residents and road users have often expressed fear over travelling along the route.
Authorities have repeatedly assured the public of improved security.
The latest development appears to reinforce those assurances.
Military sources said the quick response by troops was aided by actionable intelligence.
They noted that timely information helped prevent the terrorists from achieving their objective.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have emphasized the importance of intelligence cooperation from local communities.
Security agencies have urged residents to continue sharing information on suspicious movements.
The Federal Government has also reiterated its commitment to ending terrorism in the North East.
Despite over a decade of conflict, insurgent groups still carry out sporadic attacks.
These attacks are often aimed at undermining military morale and disrupting daily life.
However, recent military operations have weakened the operational capacity of the groups.
Several terrorists have been neutralised, while others have surrendered.
Rehabilitation and reintegration programmes for repentant insurgents are also ongoing.
Analysts say securing major supply routes is critical to long-term stability.
Such routes support humanitarian operations, trade, and civilian mobility.
They also enable faster deployment of troops and logistics.
The repelled attack underscores the continued threat posed by insurgents.
It also highlights the resilience and readiness of Nigerian troops in the theatre of operations.
Residents of Maiduguri and Damboa have welcomed the military’s response.
Some described the action as reassuring amid lingering security concerns.
Community leaders have called for sustained military presence along the route.
They said consistent security would encourage economic activities to resume fully.
The military has assured that it will not relent in its operations.
Troops remain on high alert to prevent further attacks.
As the dry season intensifies, security agencies expect increased insurgent movements.
They have pledged to stay ahead through proactive measures.
The successful defence of the Maiduguri–Damboa route adds to recent operational successes.
It reinforces the determination of Operation HADIN KAI to deny terrorists freedom of action.
For now, the route remains open and under firm military control.