President Bola Tinubu has mourned troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade, Operation HADIN KAI, killed in a terrorist attack on their camp in Benisheikh, Borno State, saying they will not die in vain.
In a statement by his spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, the president expressed condolences to the military and families of the victims.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that the attack occurred early Thursday but did not confirm reports that the brigade commander, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, was among those killed.
Tinubu praised the soldiers for resisting the attackers and protecting surrounding communities.
“From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many of their fighters and commanders. The insurgents’ counterattack is a sign of desperation,” Tinubu said.
“I extend my condolences to the families of our gallant soldiers, led by Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of our country today in Borno State. The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain. Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever,” he added.
He urged troops not to be discouraged and assured them of government support.
“I urge the Military High Command and our troops in all theatres of operation: Do not lose heart, do not be weary, do not be discouraged. Our officers and men should continue to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism. The government will always stand by the Armed Forces, provide more of the equipment needed and ensure the welfare of all who risk their lives for our safety,” Tinubu said.
The president also called on Nigerians and the media to support the military.
“I urge Nigerians and the media to continue to support our Military in their relentless battle against insurgency and banditry. We should desist from celebrating or condoning the attacks against our troops. These soldiers are our heroes; unforgettable and irreplaceable.
“My condolences also go to the government and people of Borno State. The Federal Government will continue to work with the state government to achieve total victory and lasting peace,” he said.
In a separate statement, Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the attack happened around 12:30 a.m. when insurgents tried to breach the camp.
He said troops of Operation HADIN KAI responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat.
“In continuation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Operation HADIN KAI came under a coordinated terrorist attack on their location at the Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State.
“However, the troops, led by the Commander 29 Brigade, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, responded with exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower. In a well-coordinated counteraction, the insurgents were decisively engaged and forced to retreat in disarray, abandoning their mission,” Onoja said.
The Defence Headquarters described the attack as a sign of desperation by insurgents following recent losses.
“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 statement added.
The military confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the encounter.
“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 honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation,” the statement noted.
It said clearance operations were ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping, while urging the public to avoid spreading unverified information.
“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,” the statement said.
