Troops of 202 Battalion deployed at a picketing position successfully repelled an attack by elements of Boko Haram/Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Yale Forest axis on Thursday, 26 February 2026, demonstrating a high level of combat readiness and operational effectiveness.
According to a press statement personally signed by Lieutenant AM Sani, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 21 Special Armour Brigade, Bama, the development was formally confirmed by the Brigade headquarters. The terrorists launched the attack on the troops’ position; however, the picketing troops responded swiftly and aggressively with effective firepower, thereby disrupting the terrorists’ plan. In a coordinated response, the Quick Response Force (QRF), led by the Commanding Officer 202 Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel OM Agala, rapidly mobilised to the suspected exit point to block the terrorists’ withdrawal route.
Upon arrival, the QRF made contact with the fleeing insurgents, resulting in a brief but intense exchange of fire. Overwhelmed by the superior firepower and tactical manoeuvre of the troops, the terrorists retreated in disarray into the Yale Forest.
Following the successful repulsion of the attack, troops conducted a deliberate exploitation operation along the terrorists’ withdrawal route. During the exploitation, one PKT machine gun belonging to the insurgents was recovered, further degrading their combat capability.
No casualties were recorded among own troops, and no equipment was lost during the encounter. The picketing troops have since returned to their defensive positions, while the QRF has reverted to base and continues to maintain heightened surveillance within the general area to forestall any further threats.
Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high and satisfactory as operations continue to decisively neutralise insurgent elements within the Area of Responsibility.