DHQ confirms casualties in Borno Military Base attack

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed that both terrorists and Nigerian military personnel were killed during a coordinated assault on the 29 Task Force Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State.

However, the military has neither confirmed nor denied reports that Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, Commander of the 29 Brigade, was among those killed.

In a statement on Thursday, Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, said the attack occurred around 12:30 a.m. on April 9, when insurgents attempted to breach the base’s defensive perimeter.

He added that troops of Operation HADIN KAI, under the leadership of the brigade commander, responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” compelling the attackers to retreat.

The statement partly read:“In continuation of the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations, troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade came under a coordinated attack at their headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State. The insurgents were decisively engaged and forced to withdraw in disarray, abandoning their mission.”

Describing the assault as an act of desperation, the DHQ noted that terrorist groups have increasingly launched attacks after suffering heavy losses in recent military campaigns.

The military confirmed that some soldiers lost their lives in the confrontation.

“Regrettably, a few brave soldiers paid the supreme price in service to the nation. The Chief of Defence Staff honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to defending Nigeria,” the statement added.

The DHQ said condolences had been sent to the families of the fallen troops and urged the public to disregard unverified reports circulating on social media.

Clearance operations are ongoing in the area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent them from reorganising.

“The Armed Forces, working with other security agencies, remain resolute in combating terrorism. Additional clearance operations are underway to neutralise insurgents attempting to escape,” the statement said.

The incident is part of a troubling pattern of escalating attacks in Borno State, where both civilians and security personnel have frequently been targeted.