Military Relocates IDPs from Gana Ali, Stadium Camps in Monguno Over Security Concerns

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Nigerian military has commenced the relocation of internally displaced persons (IDPs) from Gana Ali and Stadium camps in Monguno, Borno State, to a Rapid Response IDP camp, citing security concerns and intelligence reports linking the areas to insurgent activities.

In a statement issued on April 15, 2026, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, Headquarters Sector 3 Operation Hadin Kai/Multinational Joint Task Force, Lt. Ayodeji Abiodun, said the affected camps had become infiltration points for Boko Haram/ISWAP operating from the Marte axis.

The military said years of insurgent attacks on rural communities had forced many residents into Monguno, where they initially lived in makeshift shelters before formal camps were established. While many IDPs relocated to the new camps,some, particularly from the Marte axis, remained in Gana Ali, GG and Stadium camps.

According to the statement, intelligence reports indicated that some structures within the camps were being used to shelter insurgents and store logistics, enabling attacks on nearby military positions, including Charlie 13 and Charlie 7.

The military also alleged that the camps had become largely inaccessible to civilian authorities and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), following repeated killings of CJTF personnel deployed to the areas.

It added that recent attacks in Monguno, including those on an immigration office and military positions, as well as incidents of kidnapping, were linked to infiltrators believed to have passed through the identified camps.

The statement cited the April 12, 2026 attack on troops at Charlie 13, where insurgents reportedly combined a direct assault from Marte with animprovised explosive device (IED) ambush staged from within Gana Ali, targeting reinforcements led by the Commanding Officer of the 242 Battalion.

Following these developments, the military said it identified and cleared structures allegedly used for planting IEDs and concealing insurgents. It added that residents in the affected areas were given time to relocate before the clearance operation began.

The military said the relocation to the Rapid Response camp is intended to enhance security, improve administration and enable better surveillance of IDPs within a centralised location.

It stated that the operation is being carried out in line with established rules of engagement and with due regard for the safety and human rights of civilians.

Residents of Monguno and surrounding communities were advised to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activities, as authorities continue efforts to curb insurgent activities in the area.