Troops retain control of Mandaragirau base after terrorist attack

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a terrorist assault on Forward Operating Base Mandaragirau in Borno State, killing several insurgents in the process but losing five soldiers and three Civilian Joint Task Force members during the engagement.

The attack was launched at approximately 3 a.m. on Friday, with terrorists exploiting heavy rainfall and poor visibility to attempt a breach of the facility. Troops responded with a fierce counter-offensive that prevented the insurgents from overrunning the base and maintained control of the position throughout the fighting.

The Acting Media Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Lieutenant Colonel Haruna Sani, confirmed the attack in a statement, saying several personnel sustained injuries during the intense close-quarter combat that followed the initial assault. The wounded were airlifted by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai for treatment and are said to be in stable condition. Some military equipment was also damaged during the exchange of fire.

Operation Hadin Kai paid tribute to the fallen troops and CJTF members, describing their sacrifice as a demonstration of courage and commitment to the defence of the country.

The military said troops remain firmly in control of the base and continue to dominate the surrounding area, with exploitation and clearance operations ongoing to consolidate gains made during the encounter. Additional troops and combat resources have since been deployed to strengthen security in the area.

The military described the attack as a reflection of the growing desperation of terrorist groups in the North-East amid sustained military pressure, though the assault represents the latest in a series of strikes on army installations in Borno State that have claimed dozens of military lives in recent months.