Nigerian Army General Survives Deadly Terrorist Ambush in Kebbi State
Major General Bemgha Koughna, the General Officer Commanding 8 Division and Commander Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force North West, narrowly escaped a deadly ambush by suspected Lakurawa Terrorist Group fighters near Mayama Hill in Kebbi State. The incident occurred on February 23, 2026, as the GOC's convoy traveled through a volatile forested area while en route to visit frontline troops deployed in the state.
Swift Military Response Neutralizes Attackers
According to Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations for 8 Division, the convoy came under sudden and intense gunfire from armed elements believed to be terrorists operating in the area. Troops escorting the convoy responded immediately with superior firepower, engaging the attackers in a decisive counter-operation.
Five terrorists were neutralized during the exchange, forcing the remaining assailants to flee and bringing the coordinated attack to an abrupt end. The successful military response ensured the safety of Major General Koughna and his entire team while frustrating what appeared to be a planned attempt to inflict casualties on high-ranking military personnel.
Significant Weapons Cache Recovered
Following the encounter, troops conducted a thorough search of the surrounding area, leading to the recovery of a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and other items belonging to the terrorists. The recovered materials included:
- One OJC gun
- One PKT gun
- Two AK-47 rifles
- Four AK-47 magazines
- One bandolier of PKT ammunition
- Several rounds of 12.7mm ammunition
- A camel bag containing ₦840,000 in cash
- Two mobile phones
- Five motorcycles
The recovered weapons and equipment are expected to provide valuable intelligence regarding the activities, capabilities, and logistics of terrorist groups operating in the North-West region of Nigeria.
Sustained Military Presence in the Area
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that troops remain deployed in the general area to maintain operational dominance and prevent any potential reprisal attacks by fleeing terrorist elements. Lieutenant Colonel Osoba stated in his official announcement: "Troops remain deployed and vigilant in the general area, maintaining dominance to prevent further attacks."
This operation represents part of sustained efforts by 8 Division to protect civilian populations and degrade terrorist capabilities throughout the North-West region. The division continues its commitment to Operation FANSAN YAMMA, which focuses on restoring peace and security in areas affected by terrorist activities and banditry.
Background of Military Operations in Kebbi
The ambush incident follows previous successful military operations in Kebbi State. In November 2025, troops from 8 Division/Sector 2, Operation Fansan Yamma, conducted clearance operations that resulted in the elimination of several terrorists and bandits. Military sources have clarified that these operations are separate from the ongoing efforts to rescue 25 students abducted from Government Secondary School in Maga.
The Nigerian Army continues to face significant security challenges in Nigeria's North-West region, where terrorist groups and criminal elements have established strongholds in forested areas. The survival of Major General Koughna and his team, along with the successful recovery of weapons and equipment, demonstrates the military's increasing capability to respond effectively to coordinated attacks while gathering intelligence to disrupt terrorist networks.
