Troops stationed at a military base in Gajiram, headquarters of Nganzai Local Government Area of Borno State, successfully repelled an overnight attack by suspected Boko Haram or Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters. The assault occurred at approximately 1 a.m. on Monday, according to Sahara Reporters, when insurgents stormed the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in large numbers, apparently aiming to overrun the facility.
Soldiers Report Killing Several Insurgents
In distress voice notes shared with Sahara Reporters, soldiers at the base said they fought off the attackers and killed several insurgents during the confrontation. However, they also reported that several personnel were injured in the encounter and appealed for their immediate evacuation for medical treatment. The soldiers remained at the base throughout the attack, despite its intensity, and called for urgent reinforcement, additional ammunition, and logistics support from military authorities.
Equipment Losses and Unconfirmed Casualties
The insurgents were alleged to have set fire to some operational vehicles, ammunition, and other military equipment during the assault. As of the time of the report, the Nigerian Army had not officially confirmed the attack, the number of casualties, or the soldiers' claims that several insurgents were killed. Army spokesperson, Colonel Onyechi Anele, had not responded to an enquiry sent to her.
The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria's northeast, where Boko Haram and ISWAP continue to target military installations. The lack of official confirmation leaves the full extent of casualties and damage unverified, but the soldiers' appeals highlight the immediate need for medical evacuation and logistical support.
