DHQ Confirms Killing of Terrorists, Personnel in Borno Attack
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that both terrorists and military personnel were killed following a coordinated insurgent attack on the 29 Task Force Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State.
However, the military has neither confirmed nor denied reports suggesting that the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, was among those killed.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed that the attack occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. on April 9, 2026. According to him, insurgents attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military formation.
Troops under Operation HADIN KAI, led by the brigade commander, reportedly repelled the assault with what was described as “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat.
“In continuation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade came under a coordinated terrorist attack at their headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State,” the statement read in part.
“The troops responded effectively, engaging the insurgents in a well-coordinated counteroffensive that compelled them to withdraw in disarray, abandoning their mission.”
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The DHQ characterised the attack as an indication of desperation by insurgent groups, noting that recent military operations had inflicted significant losses on them.
“This attack underscores the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered substantial setbacks, continue to launch futile offensives against well-defended military positions,” the statement added.
The military acknowledged that casualties were recorded among its personnel during the encounter.
“Regrettably, the incident resulted in the loss of a number of brave soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. The Chief of Defence Staff honours their sacrifice, courage, and unwavering commitment to national defence,” the statement said.
The High Command has extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and urged the public to refrain from circulating unverified information, particularly on social media.
It further disclosed that clearance operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and prevent any regrouping.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, remain resolute in the fight against terrorism. Additional clearance and exploitation operations are ongoing to neutralise fleeing insurgents,” the statement noted.
The incident reflects a continuing pattern of insurgent attacks in the North-East region, where both civilians and security personnel have suffered casualties in recent months.
By PRNigeria
