Amir Abu Fatima, a notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, was killed during a precision hit on a terrorist stronghold in Borno State’s Kukawa axis by troops of the Special Forces as part of Operations Hadin Kai.
The operation began on Thursday after credible intelligence pointed to the location of the high-value target.
A statement on the Nigerian Army’s X Twitter on Friday said Abu Fatima, who had a 100 million bounty on his head, was critically injured in a heated fire duel. His deputy, many explosives specialists, and multiple fighters were also neutralised.
The statement titled, ‘Special forces under Operation Hadin Kai eliminate key Boko Haram/ISWAP leader Amir, Abu Fatima, and his lieutenants, read, “In a major counter-terrorism success, Special Forces under Operation HADIN KAI conducted a precision strike on 30 May 2025, targeting a key Boko Haram/ISWAP stronghold in the Kukawa axis of Northern Borno State.
“The operation, based on credible intelligence, aimed to neutralise Amir Abu Fatima, a notorious terrorist commander who has a ₦100 million bounty on his head.
“During the intense exchange of fire, Abu Fatima was fatally wounded by gunfire. His deputy, several explosives experts, and multiple other terrorists were also eliminated in the confrontation.”
During the operation, troops also discovered six AK-47 weapons, magazines, materials for improvised explosive devices, and other munitions, according to the military.
“Troops recovered several AK-47 rifles, magazines, assorted ordnance, and IED-making materials. The mission was completed without casualties on its own forces.
“This operation delivers a significant blow to terrorist leadership in the region and reinforces the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s avowed commitment to restoring peace in the North East. See pictures below,” it added.
