The teenager, identified as Isa Umaru, reported to soldiers at the Forward Operating Base in Pulka, Gwoza Local Government Area, at about 8:45 a.m. on June 14, 2026.
Military sources said he came from a Boko Haram hideout in Chikide, located within the Mandara Mountains, before crossing out of the enclave and presenting himself to personnel of the 192 Battalion (Motorised).
During initial questioning, he reportedly stated that sustained military pressure on insurgent positions, combined with limited access to basic supplies inside the camp, influenced his decision to leave.
He was found with 12 sachets of detergent and a wristwatch at the time of surrender.
According to officials, he has undergone preliminary screening, been documented, and is currently in military custody pending further procedures.
Security authorities described the development as part of ongoing movements out of insurgent-controlled areas as counter-insurgency operations continue across the North-East.
They also noted that while the wider security environment remains stable in parts of the theatre, conditions are still fluid, with troops maintaining active deployments in affected locations.
