Boko Haram terrorists, alongside Islamic State’s West Africa Province (ISWAP) militants, have launched a brutal attack on Nigerian military forces in the Gubio Local Government area of Borno State, resulting in the deaths of five soldiers.
The assault, which took place on Tuesday, also left 10 soldiers wounded and four others missing in action.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed the deadly attack, emphasizing that while the assault was a severe blow to Nigerian troops, it would not deter their ongoing counter-terrorism efforts in the region.
In a statement, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, provided further details, noting that despite the heavy casualties, the troops managed to kill numerous terrorists during the battle and recover significant weapons from the militants.
“The coordinated attack saw five killed in action soldiers, 10 wounded, and four missing in action, while troops eliminated several terrorists as well as recovered weapons,” said Maj. Gen. Buba.
The statement also revealed that the militants were able to burn several military assets, including one gun truck, three troop carriers, and an excavator, during the assault.
In response to the attack, the Nigerian military dispatched a reinforcement team, supported by air components, to secure the general area and trace the terrorists’ withdrawal route.
This rapid mobilization reflects the military’s commitment to addressing the growing insurgency in the northeastern part of Nigeria.
Maj. Gen. Buba further reassured the public, stating, “It is pertinent to note that such an attack shall not deter the troops and armed forces of Nigeria from seeing the end of terrorism, insurgency, and other insecurity challenges facing the country.”
This incident highlights the continuing challenges faced by Nigerian forces in their fight against insurgents. Boko Haram and ISWAP, the two primary groups responsible for the ongoing violence in the region, have waged a brutal campaign of terror for over a decade.
Despite significant military efforts and the recent successes in combating the insurgents, attacks like the one in Gubio demonstrate the ongoing threat posed by these extremist factions.
Local authorities have yet to comment on the extent of civilian casualties or damage caused by the attack, but the military’s swift response underscores their determination to restore security in the region.
The situation in remains tense as the Nigerian military intensifies operations to neutralize the insurgents.
However, the loss of lives and the ongoing risk to soldiers highlight the immense challenges that still lie ahead for the Nigerian forces in their battle to secure the northeast and eliminate terrorist groups from the region.
