The Nigerian Army has confirmed that a Lieutenant Colonel and several other soldiers lost their lives on Friday during a confrontation with Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
According to a statement released on Monday by Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, troops under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attempted attack by the terrorist group around Kashimri in Bama Local Government Area. Several insurgents were reportedly neutralised, and their camps destroyed.
Anele explained that the operation, coordinated by the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, was launched following intelligence reports indicating that Boko Haram fighters were regrouping to stage fresh assaults on nearby civilian communities and disrupt local economic activities.
She said the troops swiftly advanced to the identified hideouts and engaged the insurgents in a heavy exchange of gunfire, killing many while others escaped with injuries.
However, Anele confirmed that the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko, and several other soldiers “paid the supreme price” during the fierce battle. The Army did not disclose the exact number of soldiers who died.
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen troops, describing them as patriots who displayed exceptional bravery in defending the nation.
He assured that their sacrifices would not be forgotten, adding that the Nigerian Army remains determined to eliminate all terrorist elements until lasting peace is achieved in the North East and other parts of the country.
The Army also appealed to the public and media outlets to refrain from sharing images of the deceased soldiers until their families have been officially notified, in order to respect their dignity and protect the privacy of their loved ones.
