Boko Haram

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The presidency has said reports circulated in 2024 about the death of Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki, the second-in-command of ISIS, were based on mistaken identity.

The clarification followed Saturday’s announcement by United States President Donald Trump that Al-Manuki had been killed during a joint military operation involving Nigerian and American troops. President Bola Tinubu also confirmed the operation.

After the announcement, several online users revisited claims that the insurgent leader had already been declared dead by the Nigerian military in 2024.

In response, Bayo Onanuga, special adviser to the president on information and strategy, said security agencies explained that the earlier report connected to a military operation in Kaduna State was inaccurate.

According to Onanuga, Al-Manuki, who is also known as Abu-Mainok or Abu-Bilal Al-Minuki, had appeared on a list of suspected ISWAP commanders reportedly killed during military operations around the Birnin Gwari forest area.

“It is acknowledged within military and intelligence circles that Al-Manuki’s name had appeared among lists of suspected ISWAP/Boko Haram commanders reportedly killed in 2024 during operations around the Birnin Gwari forest axis in Kaduna State,” the statement reads.

“However, security officials now clarify that the earlier listing was a case of mistaken identity or misattribution in the fog of sustained counterinsurgency operations.”

The presidential aide said intelligence findings later showed that Birnin Gwari was not part of Al-Manuki’s area of operation. He said that discovery raised questions about the earlier claim.

Onanuga also stated that the latest mission against the ISIS commander came after several months of intelligence work carried out by Nigerian and American operatives. He said the operation involved surveillance, phone interceptions, and human intelligence tracking.

He added that intelligence agencies began monitoring Al-Manuki in December 2025 and tracked his movements across different locations in northern Nigeria, including Abuja and Maiduguri.

“Security officials said efforts were initially aimed at capturing him alive before the final operation was carried out,” he said.

“Unlike the previous report, security authorities insist that the latest strike was executed with a significantly higher degree of precision, target validation, and multi-source intelligence confirmation.”

Onanuga said security agencies carried out several layers of verification before approving the final operation.

“In their assessment, ‘this time, there is no ambiguity,’” he said.

The presidential spokesperson also defended public communication about counterterrorism operations. He noted that similar mistaken reports had occurred in international campaigns against terrorism, including cases involving former Boko Haram leader Abubakar Shekau and ex-ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi.

“Such cases highlight not failure but rather the evolving, often imperfect nature of intelligence gathering in asymmetric warfare,” he added.

He warned that dismissing joint counterterrorism efforts involving Nigerian authorities and foreign partners could affect public confidence and military morale.

“While public scrutiny remains an essential part of democratic accountability, security experts caution that premature dismissal of military claims can inadvertently undermine operational morale and strategic messaging,” the presidential spokesperson said.

“For now, military authorities remain firm in their position: The latest operation that targeted Abu-Bilal Al-Manuki represents a validated, intelligence-driven success against a senior figure of the Islamic State network. And in their words, this time, they are “100 per cent certain.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Suspected terrorists have abducted an unspecified number of students from a school in Mussa village, located in Askira/Uba Local Government Area of Borno State.

According to Reuters, the attack happened around 9 a.m. on Friday while lessons were in progress at Mussa Primary and Junior Secondary School.

Residents told the news agency that the gunmen stormed the school and took away several students.

A teacher at the school said the attackers arrived on motorcycles before carrying out the abduction.

“Despite some students escaping into the bushes, I can tell you many were taken away,” the teacher said.

Midala Balami, the lawmaker representing Askira-Uba/Hawul Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, described the incident as disturbing and called for urgent action from security agencies.

Reuters quoted the lawmaker as describing the attack as “heartbreaking”.

As of the time this report was filed, neither the Borno State Police Command nor the military had issued an official statement on the incident.

School attacks and mass abductions have continued to pose serious security concerns in parts of northern Nigeria in recent years, with armed groups often targeting students for ransom.

In November last year, at least 303 students were kidnapped from St. Mary’s Catholic Primary and Secondary School in Papiri, located in Agwara Local Government Area of Niger State.

That same month, gunmen also attacked Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School in Maga, Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State, where 25 students were abducted.

By Abdulsalam Alkali

In the scarred landscape of Northeast Nigeria, where Boko Haram’s insurgency has claimed thousands of lives and displaced millions since 2009, the quest for peace remains a daily struggle. As military campaigns degraded the group’s territorial hold, a more complex and contentious challenge emerged. What to do with the thousands of fighters and their associates who surrendered or were captured?

The Federal Government’s answer was Operation Safe Corridor, a deradicalization program run from a military-controlled camp in Gombe State. But for the epicentre of the conflict, Borno State, this felt distant and disconnected from the realities of its ravaged communities.

In response, the Borno State Government, under Governor Babagana Zulum, began crafting its own approach, which later became known as “The Borno Model.” 

The model is a non-kinetic approach that handles former Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters through disarmament, demobilization, deradicalization, rehabilitation, reconciliation, and reintegration known as the (Triple D, Triple R).

Unlike the military-run, camp-based system, the Borno Model is fundamentally community-centric. According to the document, “The Borno Model’s philosophy is rooted in an audacious blend of practicality and traditional norms. The model argues that sustainable peace cannot be achieved by isolating ex-combatants in distant camps, only to return them as strangers. Instead, it advocates for a localized process of rehabilitation and reintegration directly into communities, heavily mediated by local organizations, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and victims.

“The model operates on the premise that a significant portion of those in Boko Haram/ISWAP were either forcefully recruited, coerced, or driven by poverty rather than ideology, and that the path to peace requires a form of conditional forgiveness”.

This model has translated into a bold and visible policy as thousands of “repentant Boko Haram” members and their families have been received, housed in temporary “transition camps,” and then resettled in their (or new) communities, often with vocational training and start-up kits.

According to an Institute for Security Studies research document, over 160,000 people had left Boko Haram/ISWAP, with over 100,000 fighters and their families, and an additional 6,900 minors surrendering unconditionally since the program commenced.

Nevertheless, this bold program unfolds against a background of profound pain and frustration, especially for the victims of Boko Haram. 

For communities that have endured massacres, abductions, and arson, the sight of former perpetrators receiving housing and support is a bitter pill to swallow.

Many survivors ask: where is our own rehabilitation? The fears of recidivism, accusations of injustice, and deep-seated trauma that no government program has adequately addressed persist. In the streets of Maiduguri, there is a blend of emotions and concerns among its residents. While some people view this program as a viable way of achieving peace, others see it as something forced upon them by the government.

WHAT VICTIMS SAY

For Bakura Modu, who lost his parents to the insurgents, “Only God will reward us for what we have gone through,” he said with mixed emotions. Bakura Modu lost his entire family, three of his brothers and his parents were killed during the 2014 Bama attack. Bakura escaped the attack and came to Maiduguri, later took shelter with his uncle. Now he struggles to live in Maiduguri with no support from the government. Bakura has not heard or felt carried along in the rehabilitation program.

Like Bakura Modu, Ya Kaltum Bukar, 58, lost her husband and six of her children to Boko Haram insurgents. During the peak of Boko Haram insurgency in Maiduguri, “They came during Ramadan in 2012 and killed my husband and three of my biological children, and after two weeks, they returned and shot three again,” she said. 

YaKaltum only became familiar with the rehabilitation and reintegration program on Radio Programs. Now she struggles to survive in this economy, coupled with health complications.

On returning ex-Boko Haram fighters, Bakura Modu was skeptical, having had no previous knowledge or involvement: “The government has done a lot in resettling people and building homes, but not all victims of the insurgency were carried along,” he said.

According to Barrister Abba Kyari Muhammad, the Borno Model does not strictly adhere to the standard model of transitional justice. He stated that the model largely focuses on disarming insurgents, rehabilitating and reintegrating them back into society, while neglecting other core components of transitional justice, including prosecution, truth-seeking, reparation, and institutional reforms. “These obvious lapses in the implementation of the Borno Model render it something other than transitional justice,” Barr. Kyari stated.

Barr. Kyari lost his mother to the insurgents in 2013, skipped classes while at school, lost his livelihood, and was displaced multiple times within Maiduguri as a result of the insurgency. He said, “Upon all that happened, I am still yet to receive an apology from the government or other authority, let alone compensation.”  He further stated that it is evident there is no meaningful victim compensation within the current transitional justice framework.

LACK OF COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION IN THE PROGRAM

Research by the Institute for Security Studies (ISS) clearly outlined the lack of community participation in the rehabilitation and reintegration program, stating that “Communities are not involved enough in reintegration even though they facilitated disengagement and are the first point of contact for ex-Boko Haram associates.”

Speaking as both a victim of the insurgency and a professional, Barr. Abba Kyari stated that “I cannot recall encountering any form of victim compensation, reparation, or even apology to those who lost their loved ones. Available evidence suggests that internally displaced persons who are the true victims are largely abandoned, while repentant Boko Haram members are housed, clothed, and well taken care of in government-owned facilities.”

PROSPECTS AND CHALLENGES OF THE PROGRAM.

Moreover, a source from the Ministry of Rehabilitation, Reconstruction, and Resettlement (RRR) stated that the program has had both its prospects and challenges, but the government is doing everything within its powers to carry all people along. He noted that victims are also supported with skills and are resettled in their communities as peace gradually returns.

The anonymous source also noted that the Reintegration Committee was constituted by Governor Babagana Umara Zulum, and it is working round the clock to return refugees from neighbouring countries like Niger, Cameroon, and Chad.

He also clarified that not only ex-fighters undergo rehabilitation it also includes victims, abductees, and communities ravaged by Boko Haram. “All are being rebuilt and resettled, apart from Abadam Local Government that was recently opened after more than a decade of desertion, and it has improved peace in the state,” he noted.

Similarly, Samuel Orahii, reintegration coordinator at Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development, a. leading organisation working with the government on community engagement and reintegration, noted that some of their work is confidential and sensitive, however, a lot of success has been achieved, and normalcy has almost been sustained. On the Borno Model, Mr. Samuel stated that “the Borno Model is more of a traditional justice, as communities are involved,” noting that ex-Boko Haram fighters are remorseful, recently, one ex-Boko Haram fighter sought forgiveness on a live radio program on transitional justice sponsored by Allamin Foundation”.

The ISS findings, however, show a lack of adequate funding for the program, stating that “The Borno Model faces persistent challenges, especially in providing sufficient economic support to deserters once they leave the camp. Many former Boko Haram members interviewed in March and June 2025 said they left the group with few employable skills, little start-up capital, and no tools to begin a livelihood. The state has introduced vocational training in the camps, teaching skills such as carpentry, tailoring, welding, and mechanics. It also provides a one-off payment of ₦100,000 (about US $67), but this isn’t enough to restart a life after years in the bush.”

On issues around sustainability of the program, Barr. Kyari noted that the sustainability of the program lies in its economic implications, which largely remain unaddressed. “These people are accustomed to a lavish lifestyle and unrestricted control over territories and resources, yet they are now expected to survive on minimal support. This arrangement is neither realistic nor sustainable and represents a ticking time bomb if left unsolved.”

DOES THE REHABILITATION PROGRAM LEAD TO PEACE?

Moreover, despite the sustained rehabilitation and reintegration program, communities resettled, and livelihoods restored, it remains debatable whether the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-Boko Haram combatants have brought peace or otherwise. Many experts agree that since the collapse of leadership upon the death of Abubakar Shekau, many ex-fighters have retreated and laid down their arms, surrendering to Nigerian authorities. Subsequently, with intensified military aggression by Nigerian forces and the loss of many territorials holds by the insurgents, the group has systematically shifted its focus from ransacking communities to abductions, collecting ransom, and taxing in some areas within the Lake Chad region.

A HumAngle tracker from the last quarter of 2025 indicated that Borno State experienced the highest number of abductions, with over 161 people in a total of 31 kidnapping incidents. “A total of 116 incidents with fatalities were experienced,” the report stated. According to sources interviewed by HumAngle, the group has raked in over ₦1 billion through these random operations. 

This report is corroborated by Yerwa Express News’s recent report of the abduction of seven fishermen from Doron Baga in Kukawa Local Government Area in Borno State by suspected Boko Haram insurgents, with a ransom demand of ₦30 million.

This report is supported by HumAngle Foundation under ‘Fellowship on Strengthening Community Journalism and Human Right Advocacy In Northern Nigeria (SCOJA)’.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Nigeria’s military has suffered another devastating loss after a senior army officer was killed in a coordinated attack by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.

Colonel I.A. Mohammed, Commander of the 242 Battalion, died when his convoy was ambushed by fighters in the Moguno area, near the town of Boron. According to military sources, the troops were reinforcing a military camp under attack when their formation was struck by an improvised explosive device (IED), followed by heavy gunfire from insurgents hidden along the route.

Several other soldiers also lost their lives in the attack. Casualty figures have not been officially released, but a military source confirmed that the death toll includes the commanding officer and other ranks.

Colonel Mohammed’s death marks the fifth loss of a top-ranking military officer in Nigeria in 2026 alone — all within the first four months of the year. The repeated targeting of senior commanders has raised urgent questions about operational security and the resilience of the military’s command structure in the northeast counterinsurgency campaign.

As of press time, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement, but an internal security briefing described the incident as a “well-planned ambush with high-grade explosives.”

The insurgency in Borno, which has persisted for over a decade, continues to exact a heavy toll on both combatants and civilians, despite repeated government claims that Boko Haram has been largely defeated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

An attack by Boko Haram insurgents on Nigerian troops in Monguno, Borno State, involved the use of armed drones, a military source has revealed.

The assault targeted soldiers under Sector 3 of Operation Hadin Kai. It led to the death of several personnel, including Colonel I.A. Mohammed. The incident followed an earlier report that troops were ambushed by fighters linked to the Islamic State-backed faction of Boko Haram.

The soldiers had set out on a patrol mission to clear insurgents from the area after receiving intelligence reports. According to a serving Major, the attackers struck around 2 a.m. on Monday and deployed drones against the advancing convoy.

The officer explained that the drones used in the operation are similar to those seen in conflict zones such as Israel and Ukraine.

“The 242 Battalion Commander and soldiers were ambushed around 2 a.m. this morning by terrorists in Monguno Sector 3. The Commander was with some soldiers, and we don’t know the number of casualties yet,” the source said.

“They were going for reinforcement; it was drones that they used on them. The terrorists sent bombs with drones; those things shelled them. It’s very unfortunate.

“I could remember the Army explaining last year how these terrorists have been deploying weaponised drones, similar to those used in Israel and Ukraine. These drones are hard to detect with conventional radar.”

Earlier accounts had suggested that the senior officer died after an Improvised Explosive Device detonated along the route. Sources said the attack began on Sunday night and focused on a Forward Operating Base under the 242 Battalion in Monguno.

“One of our senior commanders, Colonel I.A. Muhammad, was killed last night when Boko Haram attacked Monguno. They also killed some soldiers during the attack,” a soldier on the front lines said.

Monguno serves as a key military location in the North-East. It hosts several units under the supervision of senior commanders. During the incident, insurgents reportedly concentrated their firepower on a smaller but vital position, which prompted a call for reinforcement.

“The Colonel got information that troops at the FOB were under heavy attack. As a committed commander, he mobilised to lead reinforcement to the location,” another source said.

According to the accounts, the Colonel did not reach the embattled troops. His convoy ran into an ambush along the way. Insurgents had planted a remotely controlled explosive device on the route.

“He did not die inside the camp. He was on his way to support his men when Boko Haram fighters ambushed them with a controlled landmine. It was not the type you step on; it was detonated remotely at the exact moment his vehicle approached,” the source added.

The explosion killed the Colonel on the spot. It also claimed the lives of an unspecified number of accompanying soldiers.

In 2025, a lawmaker from Borno State, Ahmed Jaha, raised concerns about the growing use of drones by insurgents. He claimed that Boko Haram fighters were deploying more advanced weapons than those available to Nigerian forces.

Nigeria has faced insurgency in the North-East for more than two decades. The latest attack highlights evolving tactics by militant groups in the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI has destroyed a major terrorist logistics hub and enclave near the abandoned village of Jilli in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, following a precision air strike on April 11, 2026.

Military authorities said the operation was driven by sustained Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions over the Bindul–Jilli axis—a known corridor for Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists and their collaborators.

The strike came after a series of deadly attacks linked to the same network. In January 2026, troops moving from Gubio toward Damasak suffered an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) attack at Bindul, killing eight soldiers and wounding several others. More recently, on April 9, coordinated attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheik were traced back to the same logistics cell.

On the day of the strike, surveillance spotted multiple gun trucks and motorcycles moving toward Jilli, with additional vehicles converging at the same point. Human intelligence sources confirmed the gathering included terrorists, logistics handlers, and collaborators. Following a rigorous targeting process, precision strikes were launched while surveillance aircraft monitored the scene in real time.

Post-strike assessment confirmed the enclave was destroyed with high accuracy. Scores of terrorists were neutralized, and their vehicles and technicals were wrecked. Survivors were seen fleeing in multiple directions. Intelligence later revealed the group was finalizing logistics for coordinated attacks on military positions in the Gubio axis.

In a related development, on April 12, a terrorist logistics courier named Turja Bulu was arrested at Ngamdu Town. During preliminary interrogation, he confessed to participating in the April 9 attack on 29 Brigade location at Benisheik. He also stated that ISWAP had dispatched him from Jilli—where many of his fellow terrorists were hiding—to deliver food to another terrorist group around the Magumeri-Gubio area.

The Theatre Command reiterated that the use of motorcycles remains strictly prohibited across the North East operational theatre, especially in Borno and Yobe States, due to their role in terrorist movement and attacks.

Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for the Joint Task Force (North East), assured residents that operations would continue with renewed intensity until all terrorist enclaves are dismantled and lasting peace is restored.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The federal government has released a list of 48 individuals and organisations alleged to have connections with terrorism financing across Nigeria.

The disclosure came on Saturday through the Nigeria Sanctions Committee (NIGSAC). The list contains names of persons and entities suspected to be involved in activities tied to extremist and banned groups. These groups include the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru), and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP).

Among those identified is Simon Ekpa, a separatist figure based in Finland who is linked to a faction of IPOB. On September 1, 2025, the Päijät-Häme district court in Finland sentenced him to six years imprisonment over terrorism-related offences. The court held him liable for inciting terrorism and for taking part in the operations of a terrorist group.

Tukur Mamu, a publisher from Kaduna, also appears on the list. He is currently standing trial in Nigeria over allegations tied to terrorism financing. Mamu was arrested in 2022 and later charged by the federal government. The charges include claims that he supported terrorist groups through financial and logistical means. He has denied the allegations.

Other individuals named include Abdulsamat Ohida, Mohammed Sani, Abdurrahaman Abdurrahaman, Fatima Ishaq, Yusuf Ghazali, Abubakar Muhammad, Sallamudeen Hassan, Adamu Ishak, Hassana Isah, Abdulkareem Musa, Umar Abdullahi, Bashir Yusuf, Ibrahim Alhassan, Salihu Adamu, Surajo Mohammad, Fannami Bukar, Muhammed Musa, Sahabi Ismail, Mohammed Buba, Adamu Hassan, Hassan Mohammed, Usman Abubakar, Kubara Salawu, and Rabiu Suleiman.

The list also contains several names from the south-east. They include Simon Njoku, Godstime Iyare, Francis Mmadubuchi, John Onwumere, Chikwuka Eze, Edwin Chukwuedo, Chiwendu Owoh, Ginika Orji, Awo Uchechukwu, Mercy Ali, Ohagwu Juliana, Eze Okpoto, Nwaobi Chimezie, and Ogumu Kewe.

Entities listed by the committee include Jama’atu Wal-Jihad, Ansarul Sudan (Ansaru), Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Yan Group, and Yan Group NLBDG.

The development comes at a time when authorities have increased scrutiny of financial channels believed to support armed groups and separatist movements. The government has continued efforts aimed at cutting off funding sources linked to insecurity in different parts of the country.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Terrorists believed to be members of Boko Haram faction Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad (JAS) have released a video showing 416 abducted women and children from Ngoshe community in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

The footage shows the captives seated on the ground in an open area while armed insurgents stand guard around them. Some of the gunmen wore face coverings, while others had their identities exposed.

The video was reportedly produced after a request by a group known as the Borno South Youths Alliance, which had demanded proof that the abducted persons were still alive amid ongoing efforts to secure their release.

In the recording, one of the insurgents spoke in Hausa through a loudspeaker, presenting the group and addressing Nigerian authorities.

“All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allah and his family. Peace, mercy, and blessings of Allah be upon you,” he began.

“We are members of Jama’atu Ahlis-Sunna Lidda’Awati Wal-Jihad, under the leadership of Imam Abu Umaymatul.

“We have gathered here today to present a few important matters. God willing, we intend to deliver a message to the Government of Nigeria, based on requests made by members of the Borno South East Alliance and others who asked for clarification about the condition of the women from Ngoshe.

“The women of Ngoshe wanted to be seen, and here they are. They are alive and in good condition. We have not harmed them in any way, nor have we mistreated them. We have kept them according to what we believe is our duty before Allah. This is because our religion instructs us to act in this manner.

“Without wasting time, since members of the Borno South East Alliance requested a video so they could see them with their own eyes, we will now allow the women to speak directly. You will hear from them and see them yourselves.”

After the statement, the captives were questioned by the insurgents and asked to confirm their identities and status. A spokesperson among the abducted persons, speaking in Hausa, confirmed they were from Ngoshe and said they were alive.

“First of all, we thank Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) who brought us to this place. Alhamdulillah, we are grateful.

“We are people from Ngoshe town. This trial and destiny befell us there. By the grace of Allah, we are alive and in good condition, together with our children, women, and elders. All of us are safe.

“Those who were injured or unwell have received treatment and care. Some of our children arrived without clothes, no shirts, no trousers, but they have now been given clothing. We have been provided with shelter and food. Alhamdulillah, we are being taken care of.”

She also expressed emotional distress over the situation and appealed for intervention from the Nigerian government and local leaders.

“Our stay here has not been difficult in terms of basic needs; we have no immediate complaints about our treatment. However, we are deeply worried and distressed because of what has happened to our relatives.

“Some people were killed when an aircraft struck, and others suffered different tragedies. Because of this, we are in emotional distress and constant worry. Our families back home are also anxious; some of them do not even know whether we are alive or dead. But now, with this video, they will at least know that we are alive.

“We are sending this message to the world so that people know we are alive and in good condition.”

She further appealed directly to top officials, including President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume, and other leaders from Gwoza and Southern Borno, urging urgent action to secure their release.

“We are calling on all of them for help, assistance, and intervention.

“We sincerely wish to return to our homes because we are not used to living like this. The lifestyle here is very different from what we are accustomed to. Our children are distressed, we women are distressed, and our families back home are also suffering emotionally.

“Living in a place that is unfamiliar to you is very difficult. We are appealing for intervention so that we can be helped and returned to our homes, reunited with our children, parents, and loved ones.

“War is not good, it only brings suffering.”

Another woman, speaking in a different local language, repeated similar concerns, praising their survival while calling for urgent rescue efforts. The captives also repeatedly thanked their captors and appealed for help.

The video highlights the continuing humanitarian crisis in Nigeria’s North-East, where prolonged insurgency has displaced communities and left many civilians in captivity.

In a related background, earlier reports had indicated repeated attacks on Ngoshe and surrounding areas, including assaults on military bases and civilian settlements, which have led to deaths, destruction of property, and displacement of residents.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

President Bola Tinubu has described the soldiers killed in Thursday’s terrorist attack on a military camp in Benisheikh, Borno State, as “unforgettable heroes,” while urging Nigerians and the media to stand firmly behind the armed forces.

The attack, which targeted the 29 Task Force Brigade of Operation HADIN KAI, resulted in the death of several brave soldiers, including Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah. The Defence Headquarters confirmed the incident occurred in the early hours of April 9, 2026.

In a statement issued by the State House, President Tinubu expressed profound sadness over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the military hierarchy and the families of the fallen troops.

“From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many of their fighters and commanders. The insurgents’ counterattack is a sign of desperation,” the President said.

He praised the courage of the soldiers who fought valiantly to repel the terrorists, preventing Boko Haram from overrunning local communities. Tinubu urged frontline troops not to be discouraged but to draw strength from the nation’s deep appreciation for their sacrifices.

“Do not lose heart, do not be weary, do not be discouraged. Our officers and men should continue to serve with honour, courage, and patriotism,” he said. “The government will always stand by the Armed Forces, provide more of the equipment needed, and ensure the welfare of all who risk their lives for our safety.”

The President also appealed to Nigerians and the media to desist from celebrating or condoning attacks against troops, stressing that the soldiers are “heroes, unforgettable and irreplaceable.”

He extended condolences to the government and people of Borno State, pledging continued federal collaboration to achieve total victory and lasting peace.

“The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain,” Tinubu affirmed. “Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has confirmed the arrest of 18 individuals accused of supplying logistics to Boko Haram insurgents in the North-East, highlighting what it described as an expanding network of civilian support for terrorist activities.

In a statement released on Wednesday, the Army said troops of Operation HADIN KAI apprehended the suspects while they were travelling through Gubio towards the Gudumbali axis, an area known for insurgent operations.

According to the military, early findings showed that the group was allegedly on a mission to deliver supplies to Boko Haram fighters.

The Army also revealed that initial confessions from the suspects pointed to economic hardship as a major reason behind their involvement.

“Initial findings indicate that the individuals were drawn into the illicit trade largely due to personal economic challenges,” the statement said, adding that insurgent groups often take advantage of vulnerable civilians to sustain their activities.

The military warned Nigerians against supporting terrorist groups in any form, stressing that such actions carry serious consequences.

“The Nigerian Army strongly warns all citizens against any form of collaboration with terrorist groups,” it stated.

“Providing logistics, intelligence, or assistance to such elements remains a serious offence, with grave consequences for national security and the safety of innocent lives.”

The Army stressed that cooperation from local communities remains vital in tackling insurgency.

“The effectiveness of ongoing operations depends greatly on the vigilance, cooperation, and active support of host communities,” the statement added, as it urged residents to report suspicious activities and resist inducements from criminal elements.

It also pointed to the need for broader socio-economic measures to address the underlying causes of insurgency.

“It is equally important to recognise the need for sustained socio-economic support and community-focused initiatives that can strengthen resilience and reduce vulnerabilities,” the statement noted.

Reaffirming its resolve, the Army said it remains committed to protecting communities and restoring peace, while calling for collective national efforts.

“Lasting peace and stability can only be achieved through a unified approach, where security operations are complemented by development efforts and strong community partnerships,” it said.