At least 18 soldiers, including a senior officer, have been killed following a coordinated terrorist attack on a military base in Borno State, North-East Nigeria, authorities and local sources confirmed on Thursday.
The assault targeted a brigade headquarters in Benisheikh, about 75 kilometres from Maiduguri, the Borno State capital. Among those reported killed was Brigadier-General O.O. Braimah, according to local government officials and security sources.
Chairman of Kaga Local Government Area, Zannah Lawan Ajimi, confirmed the death of the senior officer in a telephone interview, describing the incident as a heavy loss to the military.
Security sources said the attackers overran parts of the base during the overnight raid, killing troops and setting fire to military vehicles and facilities before withdrawing.
However, in an official response, the Defence Headquarters confirmed that both terrorists and military personnel were killed during the encounter but did not verify the death of the brigade commander.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military said the attack occurred at about 12:30 a.m. on April 9, when insurgents attempted to breach the base’s defensive perimeter.
According to the statement, troops under Operation HADIN KAI mounted a strong resistance, engaging the attackers with what was described as “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” ultimately forcing them to retreat.
The Defence Headquarters described the attack as a sign of desperation by insurgent groups weakened by sustained military offensives in the region.
“Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the statement said, adding that clearance operations were ongoing to track fleeing insurgents.
Nigeria has battled a prolonged insurgency in the North-East since 2009, largely driven by Boko Haram and its splinter faction, Islamic State West Africa Province.
Meanwhile, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the killings, extending condolences to the Armed Forces and families of the fallen soldiers.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president praised the troops for their bravery, noting that their resistance prevented the attackers from overrunning the base and nearby communities.
He described the incident as a desperate counterattack by insurgents facing sustained pressure from ongoing military operations.
“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” Tinubu said, urging the military to remain resolute in the fight against terrorism.
The president also assured continued support for the Armed Forces in terms of equipment and welfare, while calling on Nigerians to support security efforts and avoid spreading unverified information.
He further extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to restoring lasting peace in the region.
