Boko Haram terrorists have launched a deadly overnight assault on a Nigerian Army Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, killing five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
The attack reportedly occurred at about 3am on Friday during heavy rainfall, which reduced visibility and created difficult operational conditions for the troops stationed at the base.
In a statement, the Acting Media Information Officer of Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Haruna Sani, confirmed the incident and explained how troops responded to the attack.
According to him, the insurgents attempted to breach sections of the base under adverse weather conditions, but were met with stiff resistance from soldiers on duty.
He said:
“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 personnel across the theatre.”
Sani added that the troops successfully contained the attack despite the heavy rain and poor visibility, stressing that the response prevented further damage to the facility.
He confirmed that five soldiers lost their lives during the intense exchange of fire and close-quarter combat.
“Five soldiers paid the ‘supreme price’ during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat, while some equipment was also affected,” he said.
He also confirmed that three CJTF members died in the attack, while injured personnel have been evacuated and are receiving treatment.
“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside the troops, while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition receiving medical care,” he added.
Sani described the fallen personnel as heroes who demonstrated exceptional bravery in defending the nation, adding that Operation HADIN KAI remains committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups in the region.
He further stated that troops remain in control of the base, with ongoing operations aimed at clearing and securing surrounding areas.
“These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure. All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure, with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North-East theatre,” the statement added.
Local residents in Biu also confirmed the attack, saying the insurgents operated for nearly an hour during the rainstorm before troops fully repelled them.
The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, further stated that multiple locations may have been targeted during the coordinated assault.
