By Abdukareem Haruna

Monguno, Borno State – In a fierce encounter, the troops of Sector 3 Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF) valiantly defended against a series of attacks launched by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) on Tuesday, July 20, 2023.

The assailants, suspected to be ISWAP terrorists, launched the assault on Monguno, situated in the northern region of Borno State.

According to credible sources, the ISWAP militants, utilizing multiple Hilux trucks mounted with Anti-Aircraft guns, as well as motorcycles and foot soldiers, launched a coordinated attack on the troops stationed at Charlie 6 within the fortified perimeters of Monguno Town.

However, the well-prepared and resolute MNJTF forces, under the new Force Commander, Major General Ibrahim Ali, swiftly responded to the threat, engaging the terrorists in a fierce confrontation.

The troops displayed exceptional courage and combat skills as they successfully pushed back the assailants, ultimately repelling the attacks.

The valiant defense mounted by the MNJTF forces thwarted the ISWAP militants’ attempts to breach the defenses and wreak havoc on the town.

Although the details of the engagement and casualties are yet to be disclosed officially, preliminary reports indicate that the MNJTF forces inflicted significant losses on the ISWAP terrorists.

The MNJTF, a regional coalition comprising troops from Nigeria, Chad, Niger, Cameroon, and Benin, has been instrumental in combating the ISWAP insurgency in the Lake Chad region. Their collaborative efforts have, in recent days, significantly curtailed the operations of the terrorist group, ensuring greater stability and security in the affected areas.

The operation also highlights the importance of international cooperation in the fight against extremist groups, ensuring peace and stability in the Lake Chad Basin.