Borno

The Nigerian Army on Wednesday held a burial ceremony for Brigadier General Oseni Braimah, Captain Ismail, and other soldiers who lost their lives in a recent insurgent attack in Borno State.

The funeral took place at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, where the fallen personnel received full military honours in recognition of their service to the nation.

The officers were killed on April 9 after suspected Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province fighters launched coordinated assaults on military positions in Benisheikh. The town lies in Kaga Local Government Area along the Maiduguri–Damaturu highway, a key route in the North-East.

The Army, in a statement on its official Facebook page, described the ceremony as one marked by deep emotion and national reflection.

The statement read:

“In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony, the nation on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, laid to rest late Brigadier General Omo Braimah, Captain Ismail, and other gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty.

“The burial, held at the Maimalari Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri, Borno State, was marked by deep sorrow, honour, and reflection,” the statement read.

The military further explained that the ceremony reflected the respect given to personnel who died in active service. It noted that the honours accorded the deceased represented recognition of their commitment to national security.

The statement added:

“Their sacrifice serves as a poignant reminder of the heavy price paid daily by members of the Armed Forces to safeguard the peace, unity, and security of Nigeria,” it said.

Dignitaries present at the burial included Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and several senior military officers. They described the deceased soldiers as patriots who showed courage in defence of the country.

Religious rites were observed for the repose of the souls of the fallen officers and soldiers. Military officials also read out citations highlighting their service records before their families and colleagues.

The Army stated that the grief expressed by families reflected the human toll of ongoing security operations in the North-East. It added that the bravery of the deceased would remain a source of honour within the Armed Forces.

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

At least 56 people have been reported dead and several others injured after an airstrike struck a busy weekly market along the border between Borno and Yobe states.

The incident took place on Saturday at Jilli Market, a trading hub situated between Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State and Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State. The market serves residents from nearby communities, including Gubio, Chiweram, Benisheikh, Gurokayeya and Geidam.

Sources indicated that the strike may have occurred during a military operation aimed at suspected Boko Haram members. The fighter jet was reportedly pursuing insurgents believed to have entered the market to collect levies and gather supplies. However, the target was allegedly missed, with civilians bearing the impact.

Eyewitness accounts suggest heavy casualties. One witness said, “The incident happened around 2:46 p.m. while business activities were ongoing. Four fighter jets carried out the attack, though the fourth jet was not clearly visible. We only heard the sound of explosions.

“I counted 56 corpses myself and helped rescue two injured people, taking them to the hospital. I believe the number of casualties may be higher, as more bodies are still being recovered.”

Medical sources confirmed that several injured victims were taken to the Specialist Hospital in Geidam for treatment.

The councillor representing Fichimaram Ward, Malam Lawan Zanna, also confirmed the attack. He provided a slightly different casualty figure, noting that more victims were brought to hospital following the incident.

“The incident occurred at Jilli village’s weekly market under Fichimaram Ward in Geidam LGA. From the information available to us, it was an airstrike.

“When the jets launched their attack, people panicked and began to run, but the strikes continued. As we speak, over 30 people have been killed.

“More than 20 people were hospitalized in Geidam. Two were referred to the Teaching Hospital in Damaturu. Out of those receiving treatment, nine have died, bringing the death toll to over 30,” he said.

The Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters, Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), acknowledged the development but clarified the location of the incident.

“I have spoken with the chairman of Geidam Local Government, who informed me that Jilli village falls under Gubio LGA of Borno State. You may contact officials in Maiduguri for further details,” he said.

There has been no official response from the Nigerian Air Force as of the time of this report.

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 Theatre Command of the Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has apprehended five individuals linked to the unlawful discharge of firearms at a social gathering, which resulted in the death of a teenage girl.

Reports show that a stray bullet, allegedly fired by members of a vigilante group, claimed the life of a 14-year-old girl last Saturday inside her family home at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) quarters.

In a statement released Monday, the Media Information Officer of OPHK, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, said the troops of Operation HADIN KAI, together with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), arrested the five suspects in the Ngomari general area.

“The incident occurred at about 2:00pm on April 4, when vigilantes, later identified as members of an escorts team attached to the Chairman of a Local Government Area engaged in sporadic firing into the air during a wedding celebration at Umaru Musa Yar’Adua Teachers Staff Quarters.

“The reckless act led to the death of a young girl. The troops acted swiftly, traced and apprehended five suspects identified as Muhammad Husaini (28), Abba Jiddu (25), Abba Kolo Mohammed (20), Ali Adam (20), and Nura Mohammed (18).”

Lt. Col. Uba added that the suspects are currently in custody and will be handed over to the appropriate authorities for further investigation and prosecution in accordance with extant laws.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

A 14-year-old secondary school student has lost her life after a stray bullet struck her in Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.

The incident took place on Saturday, April 4, at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital (UMTH) staff quarters, where the girl lived with her family. She was said to be inside the house when the bullet hit her.

Amnesty International alleged that the bullet was discharged by military personnel who were firing shots in celebration at a nearby wedding.

However, a social media account known for sharing updates on military activities presented a different account. It linked the shooting to members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), a local vigilante group.

“CJTF, not military personnel, were allegedly responsible for the stray bullet that killed a 14-year-old girl in Maiduguri’s Costain area, according to Operation Hadin Kai.”

“The Theatre Command said preliminary findings showed some CJTF members were firing weapons during a social event in a nearby compound when the incident occurred.

“The act was described as unauthorised and unprofessional, with authorities launching an investigation to identify those responsible and prevent future occurrences. Operation Hadin Kai also expressed condolences to the family of the deceased and urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information,” the post read.

A family acquaintance described the girl’s final moments as cheerful, as she had been preparing for a wedding ceremony scheduled for that day.

“She lived in the UMTH quarters with her family and was inside her home when the tragedy occurred. She had just finished applying henna for her mother and herself, joyfully preparing for a family wedding scheduled for that same day,” the source said.

The remains of the teenager were laid to rest on Sunday at a cemetery in Maiduguri. Family members and sympathisers have called for accountability. They described the incident as avoidable.

Amnesty International has also condemned the killing. The organisation urged authorities to carry out a thorough probe.

In its statement, Amnesty International called for a transparent and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting. It stressed the need to protect civilians and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable.

The tragedy has again drawn attention to the risks linked to celebratory gunfire, especially in civilian areas within conflict-affected regions such as Borno State.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have successfully prevented multiple terrorist attacks and disrupted insurgents’ logistics networks across the North East between 28 and 30 March 2026.

This is contained in a Facebook statement signed by
Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, Media Information Officer at Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) on 30 March 2026.

According to the statement, the soldiers stationed at Damboa stopped a planned Boko Haram/ISWAP attack after monitoring suspicious movements through surveillance systems.

The troops engaged the insurgents, forcing them to retreat in disarray. Follow-up operations confirmed that the attackers had withdrawn. Similarly, troops repelled assaults on farmers and communities in Gwoza and Askira Uba Local Government Areas of Borno State, pushing insurgents toward the Mandara Mountains and nearby areas.

The troops also discovered and safely detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Goniri–Ngamdu axis. “Recovered materials, including rail tracks used to canalise vehicles into a killing zone, highlight ongoing terrorist efforts to disrupt movement along critical routes,” the statement noted.

In operations targeting terrorist supply chains, two suspected Boko Haram collaborators were arrested in Molai while acting suspiciously in a defensive area.

In Maiduguri, troops intercepted vehicles carrying large quantities of suspected terrorist logistics along the Maiduguri–Mafa road. The items, concealed in sacks and equivalent to two truckloads, included medical drugs, motorcycle tubes and tyres, mosquito nets, rolls of mats, air filter cylinders, and detergents.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the supplies were being transported without clearance toward Kusuri, a border community near Chad. The vehicles, drivers, and goods were handed over for further investigation.

Additionally, OPHK troops, working with Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) operatives, arrested Mohammed Adamu (26) at Muna Garage. “Items recovered from him include 25 litres of engine oil concealed in sacks, the sum of N624,900, a mobile phone, power bank, national identity card, and ATM cards. Preliminary findings indicate he had been supplying logistics, including motorcycle parts, to terrorists over an extended period,” the release said.

In Gubio, troops, intelligence operatives, and CJTF conducted targeted operations that resulted in the arrest of 13 suspected terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators. Two additional suspects confessed to long-term involvement in supplying materials to insurgents.

Troops also apprehended Abubakar Ali, alias “Saina,” a suspected member of JAS/ISWAP, at Kilo Papa checkpoint while en route to Maiduguri. Interrogation suggested he was conducting a reconnaissance mission. He has been handed over to authorities for detailed investigation.

In other operations, a suspected kidnapper was arrested in Azir, Damboa Local Government Area. Clearance and cordon-and-search missions in Wulgo Junction, Gamboru Motor Park, and surrounding areas led to the recovery of 450 wraps of suspected marijuana and other illicit substances, while suspected drug peddlers fled on sighting troops.

The Military High Command commended the troops for their “resilience, vigilance, and professional conduct,” urging them to maintain the operational pace to deny terrorists freedom of action, which is critical for security and economic stability in the North East.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops under the Joint Task Force, North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have eliminated 38 ISWAP fighters during a military operation in Borno State.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba. He said the incident occurred on Saturday morning.

According to the statement, the insurgents launched an attack on the Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mandaragirau, located in Sector 2 of the state. However, the troops resisted the assault and gained the upper hand.

The military explained that its personnel responded with coordinated ambushes and a combined offensive and defensive strategy. This forced the attackers to retreat in disarray.

Air support also played a role in the operation. The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided close assistance, which improved the precision of strikes against the fleeing insurgents.

“Subsequent exploitation along the terrorists’ withdrawal routes inflicted further heavy losses.

“A total of about 38 terrorists were neutralized with 8 bodies recovered so far within the immediate engagement area and human intelligence from locals confirming over 30 additional terrorists’ bodies and weapons strewn along Garin Mallum–Garin Gajere axis into the Timbuktu Triangle.

“This was evidenced by blood trails and abandoned equipment. Troops also recovered 7 AK-47 rifles, 8 magazines, 4 RPG bombs and assorted ammunition, while recording no fatalities; one MRAP was hit by RPG fire, with injured personnel promptly stabilized.

“The scale of enemy losses has triggered widespread jubilation among local communities and highlights the sustained dominance of OPHK troops in denying terrorists freedom of action,” the statement added.

The military noted that the operation has boosted morale among residents in the affected communities, as troops continue efforts to restrict the activities of insurgents in the region.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Tensions are mounting in Borno State following the alleged killing of Abdulrahman Mustapha, widely known as “Abchin,” by soldiers of the Nigerian Army on March 22, 2026. Witnesses report the victim was shot dead near the Federal High Court along the Polo Axis in the Karshen Kolta area of Maiduguri while returning from a Sallah visit to his siblings.

According to multiple eyewitness accounts, Mr. Mustapha was unarmed and posed no threat to the military personnel at the time of the incident. The shooting occurred during the festive period when residents were moving between family gatherings.

In a development that has further fueled public outrage, sources indicate that military personnel conveyed the deceased’s lifeless body along with his vehicle to the GRA Police Station. From there, his remains were transported to the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital, where he was formally confirmed dead.

Civil society groups and residents have condemned the act, describing it as a grim example of the military’s alleged disregard for the sanctity of human life and the rule of law. Critics argue that such incidents undermine public trust in security institutions and foster a climate of impunity.

Human rights advocates are now calling on the Nigerian government to intervene. They insist that the authorities must uphold constitutional and international human rights obligations by launching an immediate investigation and ensuring that any soldiers found culpable face a prompt and fair trial.

As of press time, the Nigerian Army has not issued an official statement regarding the incident, and calls for accountability continue to mount from local communities demanding justice for Abdulrahman Mustapha.

Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has denounced the explosion that hit parts of Maiduguri on Monday evening, describing it as a cruel and cowardly act.

The governor, who is currently in Saudi Arabia for the Lesser Hajj, expressed grief over the incident. He noted that the attack affected innocent residents during the Ramadan period.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media, Dauda Iliya, Zulum urged residents to stay alert. He also called on security agencies to intensify monitoring efforts, especially around mosques and other public locations.

“I am deeply saddened by the explosions that occurred in parts of the metropolis on Monday evening. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and those injured as a result of the blast,” Zulum said.

“The act is utterly condemnable, barbaric and inhumane,” he added.

Zulum suggested that the incident could be linked to ongoing military operations against insurgents in Sambisa Forest and other locations in the region.

He, however, assured residents that security forces remain in control of the situation and are taking steps to prevent further attacks.

The governor appealed for calm and encouraged the public to continue their lawful activities while cooperating with security personnel.

He also advised residents to report any suspicious movements or activities within their communities to the appropriate authorities.

Zulum reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to work closely with security agencies to safeguard lives and property across Borno State.