Nigeria’s Defence Headquarters has confirmed that several terrorists and military personnel were killed when insurgents launched a coordinated assault on the 29 Task Force Brigade headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State.
The attack occurred around 12:30 a.m. on Thursday when the militants attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military installation.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray.
“This attack is a clear indication of the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered significant losses in recent operations, continue to resort to futile and ill-fated offensives against well-defended military positions,” Onoja stated.
The military acknowledged casualties among its ranks but did not specify numbers or confirm reports that the brigade commander, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, was among those killed.
“Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the statement added.
The Chief of Defence Staff has extended condolences to the families of the fallen personnel and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information on social media.
Clearance operations are ongoing in the area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent regrouping.
