Five Top Nigerian Military Officers Killed by Boko Haram and ISWAP Insurgency
Since the Boko Haram insurgency began its violent campaign against the Nigerian state, the country has tragically lost numerous military personnel who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect national sovereignty. This article examines five senior military officers who died in the line of duty at the hands of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), highlighting their service and the circumstances of their deaths.
Colonel Muhammad Abu Ali
Colonel Muhammad Abu Ali of the Nigerian Army was killed in action by Boko Haram on November 4, 2016. He and his troops were ambushed by terrorists at a forward base in Mallam Fatori, Borno State, while responding to a surprise attack on the 119th Battalion's position. During the night operation, Ali was shot in the back. A highly decorated officer and a top commander of the 272 Tank Battalion, he was buried with full military honours at the National Military Cemetery in Abuja.
Colonel Dahiru Chiroma Bako
Colonel Dahiru Chiroma Bako died during an ISWAP/Boko Haram ambush on September 21, 2020, near Wajiroko village in Borno State. He and his men were on a mission to clear insurgents along the Sabon Gari-Wajiroko axis. Known as a "Soldier's soldier," Bako fought insurgency extensively in the Northeast, particularly in Yobe and Borno states. He was buried with full military honours and currently rests at the Maimalari Military Cemetery in Maiduguri.
Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah
Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah, Commander of the 29 Brigade, died on April 9, 2026, while responding with exceptional courage and superior firepower after ISWAP/Boko Haram fighters attacked a key military base in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area, approximately 75 kilometres from Maiduguri. Reports indicate that Braimah was trapped in his armored vehicle (MRAP), which had failed to start after breaking down during the engagement with insurgents. Hailing from Edo State, he was a former UN observer and Defence Adviser in Pakistan.
Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Sakaba
A Boko Haram attack on the 157 Task Force Battalion in Metele, Borno State, on November 18, 2018, led to the death of Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Sakaba. Before his death, Sakaba served as the Commander of the 157 Task Force Battalion. His death sparked controversy concerning the welfare of soldiers, especially those confronting insurgency. He died alongside 100 officers during the terrorist attack.
Brigadier General Musa Uba
Brigadier General Musa Uba, Commander of the 25 Task Force Brigade, was killed in November 2025 by the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). His convoy was ambushed, leading to his capture and subsequent killing. During the period of his capture, there was controversy concerning his whereabouts and well-being. His death was later confirmed by President Bola Tinubu.
These officers represent the bravery and sacrifice of Nigerian military personnel in the ongoing fight against terrorism in the Northeast. Their deaths underscore the severe challenges faced by the armed forces in combating insurgency and the need for continued support and resources to enhance security operations.
