At least eight security personnel, including five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), were killed after Boko Haram insurgents launched a pre-dawn attack on a Nigerian Army base in Borno State on Friday.
The assault targeted the Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, under the 25 Brigade, Sector 2 of Operation HADIN KAI, in Biu Local Government Area.
Military authorities said troops successfully repelled the attack despite heavy rainfall and poor visibility that initially favoured the insurgents.
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According to Operation HADIN KAI, the terrorists attacked the base at about 3:00 a.m. and attempted to breach defensive positions under the cover of adverse weather conditions.
Troops mounted a fierce counter-offensive that prevented the insurgents from overrunning the facility and inflicted casualties on the attackers.
However, the military confirmed that five soldiers were killed during the battle while three CJTF operatives fighting alongside troops also lost their lives.
Several personnel sustained injuries and were evacuated by air for medical treatment.
The military said the base remains under government control and that exploitation and clearance operations are ongoing around the area.
Operation HADIN KAI also announced the deployment of additional troops and combat assets across parts of the North-East to sustain pressure on Boko Haram groups operating in the region.
The attack highlights the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters despite years of sustained military offensives against insurgent strongholds in Borno and neighbouring states.
Local sources in Biu Local Government Area claimed the insurgents operated for close to an hour after a heavy downpour before reinforcements arrived.
Residents reported hearing sustained gunfire and explosions during the confrontation.
President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, who confirmed the attack, said more than one location was targeted.
He urged authorities to strengthen intelligence gathering and improve grassroots engagement in vulnerable communities to prevent future attacks.
Security analysts have repeatedly warned that Boko Haram groups are increasingly relying on surprise attacks against isolated military formations, particularly during periods of poor weather conditions.
Despite recent gains recorded by security forces, Friday’s attack underscores the continuing security challenges facing military personnel and communities across Nigeria’s North-East.
