President Bola Tinubu has pledged that Nigeria will intensify its fight against terrorism, declaring that the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers in a Boko Haram attack in Borno State will not weaken the country’s determination to defeat insurgency.
Tinubu, in a statement issued through his adviser on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga, expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of troops from the 29 Task Force Brigade under Operation Hadin Kai, who were killed during a coordinated attack on their base in Benisheikh on Thursday.
The president said the assault reflects desperation from terrorist groups but assured Nigerians that the armed forces remain committed and supported in ongoing counterterrorism operations.
He extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the military, praising their courage and sacrifice in defending the country.
The president urged members of the armed forces not to be discouraged by setbacks in the battle against terrorism, insisting that government support for frontline troops remains firm.
He noted that despite the loss, sustained land and air operations have significantly weakened insurgent networks, adding that recent attacks represent attempts by terrorists to regain relevance after suffering heavy losses.
He reaffirmed that the Federal Government would continue to provide improved equipment, logistics, and welfare support for troops engaged in counterinsurgency operations across the North-East and other parts of the country.
Tinubu also stressed that Nigeria’s resolve to eliminate terrorism and violent extremism remains stronger than ever.
According to him, the sacrifices of soldiers who died in active service will not be in vain, adding that the nation owes them lasting gratitude for their bravery. He also called on Nigerians and media organisations to avoid narratives that could be interpreted as celebrating attacks on military personnel, describing fallen troops as national heroes.
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters confirmed the attack, stating that insurgents attempted to breach the perimeter of the 29 Task Force Brigade headquarters in Benisheikh at about 12:30 a.m. on Thursday.
The military said troops responded with “exceptional courage and superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat after a fierce exchange.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the encounter resulted in the loss of “a few” soldiers, while acknowledging that troops successfully repelled the coordinated assault.
He added that clearance operations were ongoing in the area to track fleeing insurgents and prevent regrouping.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, praised the troops for their bravery and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace in the North-East.
The DHQ also urged the public and media to respect military tradition in announcing casualties, stressing the importance of notifying families before releasing full details. It further warned against misinformation and unverified reports circulating online, saying such content could undermine ongoing operations.
The attack comes amid renewed insecurity in Borno State, with reports indicating that several soldiers have been killed in separate ambushes in recent months. Security sources also referenced previous incidents in Ngoshe and Pulka where troops suffered casualties and equipment losses during clashes with ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters.
