President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to defeat insurgency following a deadly attack by Boko Haram fighters in Borno State that left a senior military commander and several soldiers dead.
The President described the assault, which claimed the life of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation Hadin Kai, as a “desperate” move by weakened insurgents. He insisted the incident would not dampen the nation’s resolve to end terrorism.
In a statement issued by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the Armed Forces and the bereaved families. He praised the fallen soldiers for their bravery in defending their positions during the coordinated attack on their base in Benisheikh.
According to military authorities, the attack occurred in the early hours of April 9, 2026, when insurgents attempted to breach the brigade’s defenses. Troops reportedly mounted a strong counteroffensive, forcing the attackers to retreat.
Tinubu urged frontline personnel not to lose morale, assuring them of continued government support, improved welfare, and enhanced military equipment. He emphasized that the sacrifices of the fallen would not be in vain and called on Nigerians and the media to stand firmly behind the military rather than amplify attacks against them.
“We will not be discouraged. Our resolve to defeat terrorism is stronger than ever,” the President said.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), through its Director of Defence Media Operations, Michael Onoja, confirmed the casualties but cautioned against premature disclosure of details before families of the deceased are formally notified. The military also warned against misinformation, noting it could undermine ongoing operations.
Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede paid tribute to the fallen troops, describing their sacrifice as a symbol of courage and patriotism.
The latest attack comes months after another senior officer, Brigadier General Musa Uba, was killed in a similar ambush, underscoring persistent security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East.
Meanwhile, political stakeholders and regional groups have continued to raise concerns about the worsening security situation. Senator Ali Ndume called on the federal government to intensify efforts by equipping the military with advanced weaponry, including drones and armored vehicles.
The Southern and Middle Belt Leaders Forum also urged tougher measures against terrorists, criticizing what it described as leniency in handling insurgents and calling for greater accountability and justice for victims.
In a related development, courts in Abuja have sentenced several individuals linked to terrorist activities to lengthy prison terms after they pleaded guilty to charges involving support for Boko Haram and ISWAP operations.
Despite the renewed attacks, the military maintained that ongoing operations across the North-East continue to degrade insurgent capabilities, with additional clearance missions underway to track fleeing fighters and prevent regrouping.
