Senior Officer, Six Soldiers Killed in Borno Blast

The Nigerian military has confirmed that a commanding officer and six soldiers of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, were killed after an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) struck their vehicle in Monguno, Borno State.

According to a statement by its Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the incident occurred on April 12, 2026, after troops of Sector 3 successfully repelled an attack by terrorists at the Charlie 13 location.

The statement noted that the troops engaged the attackers in a heavy exchange of fire and forced them to withdraw while maintaining control of the area.

However, the military said the commanding officer later moved toward the frontline to assess the situation when the fatal incident occurred.

It explained that he was killed when his vehicle hit an IED shortly after, adding that six other personnel also lost their lives in the blast.

“Regrettably, the Commanding Officer, while courageously proceeding to the troops’ location to personally assess the situation, encountered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) which severely affected his vehicle, leading to his death alongside six other gallant personnel,” the military said.

The military described his final actions as consistent with professional military conduct, noting that he demonstrated leadership by moving close to the troops despite the risks involved.

It said his decision to personally assess the situation reflected courage, selfless service, and leading from the front, adding that his actions showed valour, a sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of his men.

The military said it deeply mourns the loss of the officer and the other soldiers, stating that their sacrifice would be remembered by the armed forces and the nation.

“His willingness to move towards the troops in the heat of the battle, despite the prevailing danger, stands as a profound testament to his valour, sense of duty, and unwavering commitment to the welfare and operational effectiveness of his men.

“Operation HADIN KAI deeply mourns the loss of this exceptional officer and the other brave personnel who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.

“Their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served,” the statement added.