Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian military has begun relocating internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Gana Ali and Stadium camps in Monguno, Borno State, to a central Rapid Response Camp, in a move aimed at tightening security and dismantling terrorist networks operating within the town.
According to a statement by Lieutenant Ayodeji Abiodun, Acting Assistant Director of Army Public Relations HQ Sector 3 OPHK/MNJTF Monguno , the decision follows years of insurgent attacks that forced thousands of civilians into Monguno, many of whom initially lived in makeshift shelters before formal camps were established.
However, some IDPs particularly from communities along the Marte axis remained in informal settlements such as Gana Ali, GG, and Stadium camps. Security officials say these locations have increasingly become infiltration points and safe havens for Boko Haram and ISWAP enabling attacks on both civilians and military positions.
The statement added that the camps are located close to key military deployments, including Charlie 13 and Charlie 7, which have repeatedly come under attack. Intelligence reports indicate that some structures within these camps were used by insurgents for shelter, logistics, and staging operations.
In recent months, Monguno has witnessed a surge in violence, including deadly assaults on an immigration office, attacks on military personnel, and a rise in kidnappings and the military says many of these incidents were linked to infiltrators operating from the affected camps.
One of the most significant incidents occurred on April 12, 2026, when insurgents launched a coordinated attack on troops at Charlie 13. Investigations revealed that while fighters advanced from the Marte axis, another group had earlier infiltrated Gana Ali, planted improvised explosive devices, and ambushed reinforcements.
Following this, the military identified and cleared structures believed to have been used by the attackers. Residents in the affected areas were given time to relocate before the operation commenced.
The ongoing relocation to the Rapid Response Camp is designed to consolidate IDPs into a single, more secure location where authorities say protection, monitoring, and humanitarian support can be better managed.
The military emphasizes that the operation is being carried out in line with rules of engagement and with respect for civilian safety and human rights, describing it as a necessary step to neutralize threats within Monguno.
Residents have been urged to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and report any suspicious activity, as officials stress that community support will be critical to the success of the operation and the restoration of lasting peace in the area.