Boko Haram has launched fresh, coordinated attacks on multiple military bases in Borno State, killing four soldiers and injuring several others, in what appears to be a renewed offensive by the terrorist group.
In the early hours of Tuesday, suspected Boko Haram insurgents simultaneously attacked military formations in Rann, Gajiram, and Dikwa, all in Borno. According to military and local sources, while troops successfully repelled the assaults in Gajiram and Dikwa, the attack on Rann resulted in the deaths of four soldiers and injuries to six others.
“They struck around midnight,” a local resident recounted. “They overran the base, destroyed a gun truck, a Russian-made T-72 tank, and looted weapons before retreating.” The military later regained control of the area with the arrival of air support.
This deadly attack came just 24 hours after another assault on a base in Marte, where several soldiers were reportedly killed, and others remain unaccounted for.
Military Responds: We Will Defeat Terrorists
Captain Reuben Kovangiya, spokesperson for Operation Hadin Kai, confirmed the attacks and acknowledged the loss in Rann. “Despite the setback in Rann, all other attacks were successfully repelled. The Nigerian military remains resolute in defeating terrorism and restoring peace to the region,” he said.
The military claims to have neutralized over 20 terrorists in the past week, recovered arms, and continued multi-front operations across the region. Significant gains have been made in areas like Malam Fatori and Kukawa, where thousands of displaced persons have returned.
However, new intelligence suggests that insurgents are deploying drones and other surveillance tools for precision attacks, raising fresh concerns among security experts.
Rann and Gajiram: Strategic but Vulnerable
Rann, located in Kala-Balge LGA near the Cameroon border, has long been a hotspot due to its remote location and poor infrastructure. It once hosted large populations of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and humanitarian organizations like MSF and ICRC, whose operations have been disrupted by repeated attacks.
Gajiram, the headquarters of Nganzai LGA, also came under attack but was successfully defended. According to a soldier, the ISWAP faction may be targeting nearby Monguno, a larger town, by attempting to isolate it.
“We call on the air force and military high command to increase surveillance and presence in the area,” he urged.
Senate Demands Reinforcement in the North East
In response to the recent attacks, the Nigerian Senate has called on the federal government to deploy more military personnel equipped with modern technology to the North East. This followed a motion raised by Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno and supported by all senators from Borno and Yobe states.
Monguno noted that Boko Haram is regaining strength and now targeting resettled communities using advanced tactics, including drones.
Zulum Condemns Attacks, Mourns Victims
Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, strongly condemned the attacks across several communities, including Maiduguri-Damboa Road, Marte, and Chibok. He expressed condolences to the families of those killed, including two education officials who died in an IED explosion while en route to sit for a teachers’ exam.
Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s collaboration with the federal government and military to curb the menace of insurgency.
Abductions and Threats Persist in Yobe
In a related development, Boko Haram terrorists abducted a retired immigration officer and two others in Yobe State along the Biu-Damaturu road. The victims were reportedly returning from a family visit in Adamawa State when they were ambushed near Kama village.
Family members have appealed for urgent action from security agencies to rescue their loved ones.
Military Urged to Stay Vigilant
Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, has charged troops not to let their guard down. “Your enemies are not sleeping,” he warned, stressing that success relies not only on military power but also on strong civilian cooperation and timely intelligence.
Security Expert: Insurgents Now Targeting Soldiers for Weapons
Security analyst Dr. Kamar Hamza explained that insurgents have shifted tactics, attacking soldiers and barracks to seize weapons. He emphasized the need for intelligence-driven warfare rather than relying solely on traditional military operations.
“Insurgency is not conventional warfare. It requires agility, real-time intelligence, and faster decision-making. Otherwise, the terrorists will stay one step ahead,” he warned.