Nigeria’s military on Thursday confirmed that both insurgents and soldiers were killed in a coordinated attack on the 29 Task Force Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno state.
In a statement, Defence Headquarters spokesman Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja said the attack occurred around 12:30 a.m. on April 9, when insurgents attempted to breach the facility’s defensive perimeter.
He said troops of Operation Hadin Kai, led by the brigade commander, Brig. Gen. Oseni Braimah, responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism and superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat.
“Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers,” Onoja said, describing the assault as a sign of desperation by insurgents following recent military offensives.
The military did not confirm reports that Braimah was among those killed. However, Kaga Local Government Chairman Zanna Ajimi told journalists that the commander was among the casualties.
“Yes, we just left the military base now, and I can confirm to you that the brigade commander is among the casualties,” Ajimi said.
Residents said the attackers used heavy weapons, set military vehicles ablaze and burned shops near the base. One resident, Musa Aji, said there were no immediate reports of civilian deaths, though soldiers were believed to have been killed.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, Lt. Col. Sanni Uba, were unsuccessful.
The military said clearance operations were ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and prevent regrouping.
President Bola Tinubu expressed condolences over the deaths, describing the fallen troops as “unforgettable and irreplaceable” heroes.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu praised the soldiers’ efforts in preventing Boko Haram fighters from overrunning nearby communities.
“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” the president said.
Tinubu described the attack as an act of desperation by insurgents weakened by sustained military operations and urged troops to remain resolute.
He also called on Nigerians and the media to support the armed forces and refrain from actions that could undermine their efforts.
The president extended condolences to the families of the victims and to the government and people of Borno state, reaffirming the federal government’s commitment to restoring peace and security.
