Boko Haram terrorists on Friday attacked the Nigerian Army base in Mandaragirau in Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, killing five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) on duty.
In a statement, the Acting Media Information Officer of the Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Haruna Sani, said troops at the base were able to contain the assault despite adverse weather conditions, including heavy rainfall and poor visibility.
According to him, the insurgents struck around 3am, attempting to breach sections of the Forward Operating Base under cover of darkness and rain.
“Determined troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive, decisively frustrating further incursions and inflicting casualties on the attackers. The counter-assault underscores the resilience of the troops at FOB Mandaragirau and reflects the courage and determination of our personnel across the theatre,” Sani said.
He added that five soldiers paid the “supreme price” during the intense firefight and close-quarter combat, while some military equipment was also damaged.
Sani noted that their sacrifice reflected the highest traditions of service, courage, and unwavering commitment to national defence.
“Operation HADIN KAI honours their heroism and the bravery of all personnel who stood firm in the face of a determined but ultimately futile enemy assault.
“Three members of the CJTF also fell alongside the troops, while those wounded have been promptly airlifted by the Air Component Command and are currently in stable condition receiving medical care,” he said.
He assured that troops remain in full control of the base and continue to dominate the surrounding area, with ongoing operations aimed at consolidating their position.
“These failed attacks further underscore the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer devastating losses under sustained operational pressure. All necessary measures are being taken to protect communities and sustain relentless pressure, with the deployment of additional troops and critical combat enablers throughout the North-East theatre,” the statement added.
However, local sources painted a more troubling picture. Residents who spoke to our correspondent said the attackers operated for nearly an hour during the heavy downpour, encountering little resistance.
The President of the Borno South Youth Alliance, Samaila Kaigama, confirmed the incident and disclosed that multiple locations were targeted.
“Yes, the attack occurred. They stormed the location and killed many soldiers. It is not one place that was attacked,” he said.
Kaigama urged the government to strengthen security efforts and improve community engagement to enhance intelligence gathering.
“The government needs to create a platform for knowledgeable people to discuss and review security issues. Just like forest guards are being created, there must be a grassroots liaison initiative not controlled solely by the government. Through such structures, some of these attacks can be reduced,” he said.
Military sources said the attack took place during a downpour, leading to a fierce gun battle between troops and insurgents.
One source alleged that the terrorists pursued fleeing soldiers after breaching the base.
“Boko Haram chased them. If you see how they killed our people, some soldiers had to run for their lives. Everything happened when it was raining,” the source said.
Another source disputed the official casualty figures, claiming the number of dead was higher.
“Eight? They are more than eight who were killed, while others were injured,” the source revealed.
A viral video obtained by our correspondent showed soldiers and CJTF members surveying the aftermath, with several bodies seen at different locations within the base.
