Nigerian Military Confirms Borno Attacks, Reaffirms Resolve to Crush Insurgency
The Nigerian military has confirmed a series of coordinated attacks on its bases in Borno State by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, resulting in the deaths of four soldiers. Despite the losses, the military maintains that it remains fully committed and capable of defeating terrorism in the region.
Addressing journalists on Tuesday in Maiduguri, the Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Major General AE Abubakar, provided details of the recent insurgent activities and the military’s ongoing response.
Attacks on Rann, Dikwa, Gajiram
According to Maj.-Gen. Abubakar, insurgents launched simultaneous attacks on military locations in Rann, Dikwa, and Gajiram on Monday and Tuesday. While troops successfully repelled the assaults in Dikwa and Gajiram, the base in Rann sustained a breach, leading to the death of four personnel.
“In Rann, the terrorists managed to penetrate to an extent. However, we have re-secured the area, and our operations continue,” the commander confirmed.
A Shifting Threat and a Complex Battlefield
The commander dismissed suggestions of a renewed dominance by insurgents, instead attributing the recent attacks to evolving strategies by desperate terrorist elements. He noted that the attacks were aimed at isolated and vulnerable military outposts, primarily for propaganda value.
He also raised alarm over an emerging threat: the deployment of armed drones by insurgents a tactic he said was first observed in November 2024 and is increasingly challenging to counter with conventional radar systems.
“The introduction of armed drones into the battlefield is a concerning development, akin to tactics used in Israel and Ukraine. It demonstrates the insurgents’ ability to adapt through access to modern technology,” Abubakar warned.
Regional Instability Fueling Insurgency
Maj.-Gen. Abubakar emphasized that deteriorating security across the Sahel region has directly impacted Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts. He said the fall of military barracks in neighboring countries and the unchecked movement of stolen weapons across porous borders have rearmed terrorist factions operating within Nigeria.
“Two years ago, we were close to declaring the conflict over. However, regional instability, particularly the collapse of state security structures in the Sahel, has revitalized the insurgents’ capabilities,” he said.
Military Response and Strategic Adjustments
In response, the military has been undergoing a comprehensive re-strategization and reorganization. The recent visit by the Chief of Army Staff, along with several command changes including Maj.-Gen. Abubakar’s own appointment three weeks ago signal a renewed push to end the insurgency.
He disclosed that additional personnel and equipment have been deployed to the theatre, with a renewed focus on flexible and mobile deployments to counter the insurgents’ multi-pronged tactics.
“In the past two months, we’ve reviewed our operations. We’re closing the gaps exploited by terrorists. Our aim is clear decisive victory, achieved through precision and persistence,” he affirmed.
Recent Successes and Community Engagement
Despite the setbacks, the military claims significant gains in recent weeks. Over 20 terrorists have been killed, with weapons recovered. Additionally, nearly 20,000 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) have returned to their communities in Malam Fatori and Kukawa, reflecting improved security in those areas.
The theatre commander praised the increased morale among troops, attributing it to welfare initiatives introduced by military leadership.
However, he stressed that military success also depends on public cooperation.
“Security is not solely the responsibility of those in uniform. Nigerians must play their part. Last week, our troops intercepted 13,000 liters of petrol en route to terrorist enclaves an amount sufficient to fuel their operations for a year,” he revealed.
He called on local communities to remain vigilant and assist in identifying collaborators and smugglers aiding the insurgents.
The Challenge of Geography
Maj.-Gen. Abubakar underscored the immense operational challenge posed by the geography of the conflict zone. He pointed to the vast expanse of the theatre over 150,000 square kilometers—and highlighted the infamous Timbuktu Triangle, which alone exceeds the landmass of Rivers and Osun states combined.
“To effectively secure such a vast and difficult terrain, operations must be methodical and phased. As Sun Tzu said, you must separate the water from the fish. We are doing just that,” he said.
Final Appeal and Warning
The commander issued a final warning to insurgents still in hiding: surrender or face total annihilation. He assured that those who lay down their arms would be treated humanely, but those who continue fighting will be decisively dealt with.
“Our resolve is unwavering. The Nigerian military is resourced, ready, and motivated. We will bring this conflict to a close,” he stated firmly.
As Nigeria continues its long war against insurgency, the military’s message is clear victory remains within reach, but it will require national unity, patience, and continued public support.
Reference
Nigerian Military Confirms Borno Attacks, Reaffirms Resolve to Crush Insurgency