Five Soldiers, Three CJTF Members Killed as Troops Repel Deadly Terrorist Assault on Borno Military Base

Five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) have been killed following a fierce terrorist attack on a military formation in Mandaragirau, Borno State, as troops of Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attempt to overrun the base.

The attack occurred in the early hours of Friday during a heavy downpour, with insurgents reportedly exploiting poor visibility caused by the weather to launch a coordinated assault on the Forward Operating Base (FOB).

In a statement issued by the Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Haruna Sani, the terrorists attempted to breach sections of the military facility at about 3:00 a.m. but encountered stiff resistance from troops stationed at the base.

According to the military, soldiers immediately mounted a determined counter-offensive, engaging the attackers in an intense firefight that prevented them from gaining control of the installation.

“The insurgents attempted to infiltrate the base under the cover of darkness and adverse weather conditions. However, determined troops responded with a fierce counter-assault, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers,” the statement said.

The military described the confrontation as one of the most intense engagements in recent weeks, noting that troops fought courageously despite sustaining casualties.

Captain Sani disclosed that five soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while three CJTF operatives supporting military operations in the area also lost their lives.

He praised the fallen personnel for their sacrifice and dedication to national security.

“Their sacrifice embodies the highest traditions of service, courage and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation. 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,” he stated.

The military further revealed that some equipment was damaged during the exchange of fire, although operational control of the base remained intact.

Personnel injured during the attack were swiftly evacuated by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai and transported to medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment. Authorities said the wounded are in stable condition.

Despite the attack, troops have maintained full control of the military base and surrounding communities, while follow-up clearance and exploitation operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and assess enemy casualties.

Military authorities said additional troops and combat assets have been deployed to strengthen security in the area and sustain pressure on terrorist groups operating across the North-East.

Operation Hadin Kai noted that the failed assault reflects growing desperation among insurgent groups facing sustained military offensives and mounting battlefield losses.

The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilian populations and eliminating terrorist threats across the region, stressing that ongoing operations would continue until insurgent networks are dismantled.