HURIWA Commends Army Chief Over Counter-Terrorism Gains, Urges Coordinated Rescue of 52 Borno Children

PRESS STATEMENT

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA)

HURIWA Commends Army Chief Over Counter-Terrorism Gains, Urges Coordinated Rescue of 52 Borno Children

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu and the troops of the Nigerian Army for the recent operational successes recorded in counter-terrorism operations across the North-East, North-West and North-Central regions.
HURIWA said the reported success of troops of the 162 Amphibious Battalion, Operation Hadin Kai, in repelling a coordinated attack by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the Forward Operating Base, Mandaragirau, in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, was a significant demonstration of the Army’s operational readiness and tactical capacity.
The association, in a statement by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, particularly commended the troops for their courage and professionalism in defeating the attackers, neutralising several terrorists and recovering weapons and other military equipment.
According to HURIWA, the successful defence of the military base, reportedly without any casualty among the troops, should encourage the military high command to sustain the offensive against terrorist organisations and deny them the opportunity to regroup and expand their operational networks.
However, the association stressed that military victories must ultimately be measured by their impact on the safety and freedom of civilians affected by terrorism.
HURIWA therefore urged the Chief of Army Staff to strengthen operational coordination with the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs to facilitate the urgent rescue of the 52 children and other victims from Borno State who have reportedly remained in terrorist captivity for about 90 days.
The association described the prolonged captivity of the victims as a serious humanitarian and national security concern, particularly given reports that some affected families have resorted to selling houses and other property in anticipation of ransom demands.
HURIWA also expressed concern over reports of alleged fraudsters exploiting the desperation of victims’ families by impersonating representatives of the abductors and demanding money.
The association said such developments further demonstrate the urgent need for a coordinated government response that combines military operations, intelligence gathering, effective communication with affected families and appropriate measures to prevent ransom-related fraud.
HURIWA called for enhanced intelligence-sharing and closer operational collaboration among the Army, Air Force, Navy, police and relevant intelligence agencies in efforts to locate and rescue the victims.
The association maintained that the rescue operation should receive sustained attention at the highest levels of the national security architecture.
HURIWA said: “We commend the Nigerian Army and, particularly, the troops of Operation Hadin Kai for their courage and professionalism in confronting the terrorists at Mandaragirau.
“However, the objective of counter-terrorism operations is not simply to defeat terrorists in combat but to protect citizens and restore their freedom and security.
“We therefore urge the Chief of Army Staff and other Service Chiefs to intensify their collaboration and intelligence-driven operations aimed at locating and rescuing the 52 children and other Nigerians who have reportedly spent about 90 days in captivity.
“Every additional day in captivity exposes these victims, particularly the children, to unacceptable risks. Their rescue should therefore be treated as an urgent humanitarian and national security priority.”
The rights group further appealed to Nigerians to sustain their support and solidarity with the Armed Forces as they continue to confront terrorism and insurgency across the country.
HURIWA urged residents of affected communities to cooperate with security agencies and provide credible information capable of supporting ongoing operations, while cautioning against the dissemination of unverified information that could compromise military operations or endanger hostages.
The association also called on the Federal Government to maintain appropriate communication with the families of the abducted victims and ensure that they are not left without information or support during the prolonged search for their loved ones.
HURIWA reiterated its confidence in the professionalism and commitment of Nigeria’s Armed Forces and urged the military high command to sustain the current operational momentum.
The association said the country must remain united in confronting terrorism, while insisting that the ultimate measure of success must be the restoration of peace, protection of civilians and safe return of those still in captivity.

Signed:
Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA). Monday August 16th 2026.