Eight Killed as Terrorists Attack Borno Army Base

At least eight security personnel were killed after suspected Boko Haram fighters attacked a Nigerian Army base in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, in the early hours of Friday.

Confirming the incident in a statement on Friday, the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation HADIN KAI, Haruna Sani, said troops successfully repelled the assault despite heavy rainfall and poor visibility.

The attack targeted the Forward Operating Base under the 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI. Those killed included five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).

According to him, the insurgents launched the attack around 3 a.m. and attempted to breach parts of the military facility. Troops responded with a counter-offensive that prevented the attackers from overrunning the base. 

Sani said five soldiers lost their lives during the intense exchange of fire, while some military equipment was damaged. He added that three CJTF operatives were also killed during the battle.

 “Troops of Forward Operating Base (FOB) Mandaragirau under 25 Brigade of Sector 2, Operation HADIN KAI, successfully contained a terrorist attack in the early hours of this morning despite adverse weather conditions and poor visibility occasioned by heavy rainstorms.

“The terrorists launched the attack at approximately 0300 hours and attempted to breach sections of the FOB under the extreme weather conditions.

“Determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers. The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau and reflects the courage and determination of our troops across the theatre,” Sani said. 

He added, “Regrettably, in the course of the battle, five gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the intense firefight and close-quarter engagement, while some equipment was also affected by the firefight.

“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.

“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside troops, while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition while receiving appropriate medical care.” 

The military spokesman disclosed that injured personnel had been evacuated by air for medical treatment and were in stable condition.

He said the troops remained in control of the base and had continued clearance and exploitation operations in the area, adding that additional personnel and combat assets had been deployed to sustain pressure on terrorist groups operating in the North-East.

Sani described the attack as another indication of the desperation of insurgents facing sustained military operations across the region.

The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, said more than one location was targeted during the assault and alleged that several soldiers were killed.

He called for stronger security measures and improved community-based intelligence gathering, arguing that broader grassroots involvement could help reduce future attacks.

“Yes, the attack occurred. They stormed the location and murdered many soldiers. It is not one place that was attacked,” he said.

“The government needs to create avenues for people who are knowledgeable to discuss and review issues of insecurity. Just as they created forest guards, they must create a grassroots liaison initiative that is not controlled by the government. Through those people, some of these attacks can be reduced,” he added.