The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, April 9, 2026, was launched by Boko Haram insurgents who attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military formation.
Troops of the Nigerian military under Operation Hadin Kai have come under a coordinated terrorist attack on the headquarters of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Benisheikh, Borno State, according to a statement issued by the Defence Headquarters.
The attack, which occurred in the early hours of Thursday, April 9, 2026, was launched by Boko Haram insurgents who attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military formation.
According to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), the terrorists struck at about 12:30 a.m., but were met with fierce resistance from the troops stationed at the base.
SaharaReporters had earlier reported that fighters from the Islamic State-backed faction of Boko Haram attacked a military formation in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State on Wednesday night.
The insurgents reportedly stormed the base with heavy gunfire and explosives, killing an unspecified number of soldiers, including Braimoh, and leaving several others injured or missing.
A military source had said, “He was killed alongside the Brigade Imam and several officers. The attack lasted for hours. It is very unfortunate.”
In a statement signed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military said the troops responded with exceptional courage, professionalism and superior firepower, forcing the attackers to retreat.
The statement read, “Troops of the 29 Task Force Brigade in Operation HADIN KAI came under a coordinated terrorist attack on their location at the Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State.
“The attack occurred at approximately 0030hrs (12:30am) on Thursday, 9 April 2026, as insurgents attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the military installation. However, the troops, led by the Commander 29 Brigade, Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, responded with exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower.”
The military added that the troops mounted a well-coordinated counterattack that forced the insurgents to abandon their mission and flee.
“In a well-coordinated counteraction, the insurgents were decisively engaged and forced to retreat in disarray, abandoning their mission and leaving behind traces of their failed assault,” Onoja said.
The Defence Headquarters described the attack as a sign of desperation by terrorist groups who have suffered heavy losses in recent military operations across the North-East.
“This attack is a clear indication of the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered significant losses in recent operations, continue to resort to futile and ill-fated offensives against well-defended military positions.”
He noted that the swift response by the troops highlighted the operational readiness and resilience of forces under Operation Hadin Kai.
“The swift and decisive response by troops underscores the high level of combat readiness, resilience, and operational effectiveness of Operation HADIN KAI in safeguarding critical locations and maintaining pressure on terrorist groups across the North-East theatre,” he said.
However, the military confirmed that the clash resulted in casualties among its personnel.
“Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” the statement said.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, praising their sacrifice and dedication to the country.
“The Chief of Defence Staff honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation. Their courage will forever remain a source of pride and inspiration to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the entire nation,” the statement noted.
The military high command also extended condolences to the families of the slain soldiers.
“The High Command extends its deepest condolences to their families and loved ones,” Onoja said.
The Defence Headquarters added that details of the fallen soldiers would not be immediately released in line with military protocol.
“In line with established military tradition and respect for the fallen, the general public and media are kindly requested to allow the Armed Forces to formally notify the next of kin before the release of further details,” the statement explained.
Authorities also warned against the spread of misinformation regarding the attack.
“The public is also urged to disregard misinformation, sensational reports, and unverified content circulating across social media platforms, as these undermine ongoing operations and national security efforts,” the statement added.
Meanwhile, the military said additional operations are ongoing in the area to track down the fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders, remain resolute and undeterred in the ongoing fight against terrorism and insurgency.
“Additional clearance and exploitation operations are ongoing in the general area to track and neutralize fleeing insurgents, as well as to deny them any opportunity to regroup.”
The Chief of Defence Staff also commended the troops for their courage and dedication in one of the most challenging operational theatres in the country.
“The Chief of Defence Staff commends the bravery, discipline, and steadfastness of the troops, whose sacrifices continue to ensure the safety, stability, and sovereignty of Nigeria.
“Their dedication in one of the most challenging operational environments reaffirms the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring lasting peace in the North-East and across the country.”
The military also urged citizens to support security agencies by providing credible information that could assist ongoing operations.
“The general public is encouraged to continue supporting the Armed Forces through timely and credible information that can aid ongoing operations,” the statement added.
“Citizens are urged to remain calm, vigilant, and law-abiding as security forces sustain momentum in ongoing operations.”
