Friend Mourns Nigerian Army Officer Killed in Borno Terrorist Ambush
A close friend, Aliyu Jamilu, has expressed deep sorrow over the reported death of a Nigerian Military officer, Major Bashar Mohammed, who was killed during a deadly ambush by terrorists in Borno State. The incident, which occurred in Damasak, resulted in significant casualties among Nigerian soldiers, highlighting ongoing security challenges in the region.
Details of the Ambush and Casualties
According to reports, at least nine Nigerian soldiers lost their lives in the ambush, with over a dozen others reported missing following the attack by IS-aligned jihadists. The ambush targeted a military patrol in Damasak, a town in Borno State known for its vulnerability to terrorist activities. Eight soldiers managed to return to their base safely, but the fate of the remaining personnel, including their commander who held the rank of a major, remains uncertain.
Aliyu Jamilu shared the heartbreaking news on his Facebook page on Wednesday, January 28, 2026, revealing that Major Bashar Mohammed's body was recovered after several days of being missing in action. In his emotional post, Jamilu wrote, "Innalillahi wa inna Ilaihirraju'un! Rayuwa abun tsoro. Just woke to the sad news of the passing of my dear friend Major BA Mohammed who paid the supreme price in the defense of the motherland." He added that the recovery of the body brought a somber closure to the search efforts in Damasak.
Tribute to a Fallen Hero
In his tribute, Jamilu praised Major Mohammed's character and dedication, recalling a recent conversation where the officer, despite being in a remote bush area with poor network coverage, still reached out to check on his friend. "To think that I spoke to him few days ago where he told me yana cikin bush and there was no network yet still managed to reached out to check up on me, says a lot about the kind of person he was," Jamilu noted, emphasizing the officer's selflessness and commitment to his duties and relationships.
Jamilu concluded his message with prayers for the deceased, saying, "May the Almighty forgive his shortcomings, expand his grave, grant him eternal rest, and comfort the family and loved ones he left behind. Allahu Akbar. RIP Bash, I will miss you." This heartfelt farewell underscores the personal loss felt by those who knew Major Mohammed, as well as the broader impact of such attacks on military personnel and their communities.
Broader Implications for Security in Borno
This ambush adds to a series of violent incidents in Borno State, raising concerns about the effectiveness of counter-terrorism efforts in the region. The involvement of IS-aligned groups suggests persistent threats that continue to challenge Nigerian security forces. The loss of officers like Major Bashar Mohammed not only affects military operations but also deepens the grief among families and friends, calling for renewed strategies to enhance safety and support for troops on the front lines.
