Nigerian general killed as troops repel militant attack in Borno
A senior army officer and several soldiers have been killed following a militant attack on a military base in northeastern Nigeria, highlighting the ongoing security challenges in the region.
The attack took place early Thursday in Benisheikh, located in Borno State, according to military spokesperson Michael Onoja. He said the assault was carried out by “terrorists” but was ultimately repelled by Nigerian forces.
President Bola Tinubu confirmed the death of Brigadier General Oseni Omoh Braimah, describing him as a courageous leader who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
In a statement, Tinubu expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and praised the resilience of the armed forces. He said the attack reflected the desperation of insurgent groups and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to defeating terrorism across the country.
While the military did not provide an official casualty figure, media reports suggest that at least 18 people may have been killed in the attack.
The Nigerian army said the assault demonstrates that militant groups, despite suffering recent losses, continue to launch attacks against military positions. Officials maintain that such offensives are increasingly unsuccessful due to stronger defensive operations.
Nigeria continues to face a complex and long-running security crisis, particularly in its northern regions. The insurgency, which has lasted more than a decade, involves multiple armed groups responsible for violence, kidnappings, and instability.
Among the most prominent are Boko Haram and its breakaway faction, Islamic State West Africa Province, both of which have carried out numerous attacks in the northeast. Additional threats have emerged from groups linked to the Islamic State and other regional networks.
The situation has further worsened with the expansion of militants from the Sahel region, including Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, which claimed its first attack inside Nigeria last year.
In response to the growing threat, the United States has increased its support for Nigeria’s military efforts. Earlier this year, around 200 US troops and surveillance drones were deployed to assist in counterterrorism operations. However, US officials clarified that their personnel would not take part in direct combat.
The deployment follows a broader security partnership between the two countries, amid rising international concern over the deteriorating situation.
According to data from the United Nations, thousands of people have been killed in the conflict over the years. Analysts warn that more needs to be done to protect civilians and stabilise affected regions.
Meanwhile, the US State Department has authorised non-emergency staff to leave Nigeria’s capital, Abuja, citing worsening security conditions.
Despite ongoing military operations, the latest attack underscores the persistent threat posed by militant groups and the challenges facing efforts to restore peace and stability in the country.
