By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
An unspecified number of Nigerian soldiers, including a brigadier-general of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Operation HADIN KAI, Oseni Braimah, are feared to have been killed by terrorists who attacked a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.
Michael Onoja, the Director of the Defence Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), confirmed the attack in a statement on Thursday, April 9.
According to the statement, the “coordinated terrorist attack” occurred around 12:30 am on Thursday, April 9, noting that the insurgents attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military installation; however, the troops responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower.”
The statement added that the superior military response forced the attackers to retreat “in disarray, abandoning their mission and leaving behind traces of their failed assault.”
It further noted that some soldiers were killed by the terrorists, adding that their courage would remain a source of pride and inspiration to the Army.
“This attack is a clear indication of the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered significant losses in recent operations, continue to resort to futile and ill-fated offensives against well-defended military positions.
“The swift and decisive response by troops underscores the high level of combat readiness, resilience, and operational effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI in safeguarding critical locations and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups across the North-East theatre.
“Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation. Their courage will forever remain a source of pride and inspiration to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the entire nation.”
Onoja also extended the High Command’s condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen soldiers and urged the public to ignore misinformation, sensational stories, and unverified content circulating on social media.
He added, “In line with established military tradition and respect for the fallen, the general public and media are kindly requested to allow the Armed Forces to formally notify the next of kin before the release of further details.
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The statement noted that further clearance and follow-up operations are ongoing in the area to track and kill fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, remain resolute and undeterred in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency. Additional clearance and exploitation operations are ongoing in the general area to track and neutralise fleeing insurgents, as well as to deny them any opportunity to regroup.
“The Chief of Defence Staff commends the bravery, discipline, and steadfastness of the troops, whose sacrifices continue to ensure the safety, stability, and sovereignty of Nigeria. Their dedication in one of the most challenging operational environments reaffirms the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring lasting peace in the North-East and across the country.”
According to a report by AFP, a brigadier-general was among those killed in the terrorists’ attack.
AFP reported that the death of the brigadier-general was confirmed by two intelligence sources and the Chairman of Kaga Local Government, Zannah Lawan Ajimi, in a phone interview.
“Unfortunately, the brigade commander, Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, lost his life,” Ajimi said.
The brigadier-general’s death is the latest in terrorists’ killings of high-ranking military officials and follows the killing of Brigadier General Musa Uba by ISWAP in November 2025.
