July 26, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
The Nigerian Army has announced the surrender of a senior finance operative of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), describing the development as a significant breakthrough in ongoing counter-terrorism operations in the North-East.
According to a statement issued by the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Captain Mohammed Goni, the suspected ISWAP finance chief voluntarily surrendered to troops of the 3 Battalion under the 24 Task Force Brigade alongside his two sons.
The military said the suspect turned himself in along the Ladari–Jegarawa–Tunokalia axis on the Gamboru–Wulgo Main Supply Route following sustained land and air offensives against terrorist strongholds.
During the surrender, troops reportedly recovered one AK-47 rifle, four magazines, 101 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one motorcycle, and ₦40,000 in cash.
According to the Army, preliminary investigations identified the suspect as the chief finance operative of the ISWAP enclave in Jubillaram, where he allegedly managed the group’s financial operations and logistics.
The military also disclosed that 46 suspected terrorists and their family members voluntarily surrendered in separate operations conducted across the North-East in recent days, attributing the development to intensified military pressure on insurgent camps.
Operation HADIN KAI stated that the surrendered suspect is currently undergoing profiling and interrogation to provide intelligence that could support ongoing operations against terrorist groups in the region.
The Army described the surrender as another major setback for ISWAP, saying it reflects the gradual weakening of the group’s command structure, operational capability, and support network.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to restoring peace and security in the North-East and urged remaining insurgents to take advantage of the Federal Government’s non-kinetic initiatives by surrendering their weapons.
Security authorities also appealed to members of the public to continue providing credible information to security agencies to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
While the military has continued to report increasing numbers of terrorist surrenders in recent years, some security experts have called for greater transparency in the screening, rehabilitation, and reintegration of former insurgents to ensure accountability and protect affected communities.
SUNTV Global Channel will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on Nigeria’s security operations.
