Nigerian Army Refutes Claims of High Casualties in Borno Terrorist Attacks
The Nigerian Army has officially dismissed reports circulating in various media outlets that over 40 soldiers were killed during recent terrorist attacks in parts of Borno State. According to military authorities, these claims rely heavily on unverified sources and present an inaccurate picture of the security situation in the region.
Coordinated Terrorist Assaults on Multiple Communities
Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer for Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation Hadin Kai, confirmed that Boko Haram terrorists launched coordinated night attacks on vulnerable communities around Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok, and Jakana general areas. These attacks occurred after terrorists who had been dislodged from the Sambisa Forest regrouped to launch fresh assaults.
The military spokesperson emphasized that troops responded swiftly and fought gallantly to repel the terrorists and defend the affected communities. During intense engagements, a significant number of terrorists were neutralized by Nigerian forces.
Military Confirms Casualties But Denies Being Overrun
While acknowledging that casualties occurred during the operations, Colonel Uba clarified that the troops were not overrun as portrayed in some reports. He disclosed that a Commanding Officer and some brave soldiers paid the supreme price during the defense operations.
"It is important to note that the troops were not overrun as portrayed in the report. Rather, they engaged the terrorists from multiple fronts in a determined effort to protect innocent civilians and restore normalcy," Uba stated in an official release issued on Sunday, March 7, 2026.
Civilian Casualties Result from Terrorist Tactics
The military spokesperson explained that the attackers employed indiscriminate explosives and heavy night gunfire, which regrettably resulted in civilian casualties as many residents were caught in the crossfire created by the terrorists' reckless actions. This highlights the complex challenges faced by security forces operating in civilian-populated areas while combating terrorist elements.
Context of Recent Borno Security Incidents
The recent attacks follow a pattern of Boko Haram operations in Borno State. Previously, the terrorist group executed a coordinated attack on a military base and IDP camp in Ngoshe town, where over 100 women and children were reportedly abducted during the raid. In another incident, Major I. U. Mairiga, a Forward Operating Base Commander, three soldiers, and a hunter were killed in a Boko Haram attack on the Mayanti base.
Despite these challenges, Operation HADIN KAI troops have achieved significant successes, including dismantling terrorist logistics networks, arresting two ISWAP suppliers, and seizing substantial quantities of arms and ammunition.
Military's Commitment to Counter-Terrorism Operations
The Nigerian Army's statement underscores its ongoing commitment to protecting civilians and maintaining security in northeastern Nigeria. While acknowledging the sacrifices made by military personnel, authorities emphasize that reports of mass casualties among soldiers are exaggerated and do not reflect the actual outcomes of counter-terrorism operations.
The military continues to engage terrorist elements across multiple fronts while working to restore normalcy and protect vulnerable communities in Borno State and surrounding regions affected by insurgent activities.
