President Bola Tinubu has expressed deep sorrow over the deaths of soldiers from the 29 Task Force Brigade, Operation HADIN KAI, following a coordinated terrorist attack on their base in Benisheikh, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President described the fallen troops as “unforgettable heroes” and extended his condolences to the Nigerian Armed Forces and the families of those who lost their lives.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed that the attack took place in the early hours of Thursday, resulting in casualties among the troops.
Tinubu commended the soldiers for their bravery, noting that they fought fiercely to repel the attackers and prevent insurgents from overrunning nearby communities. He added that their sacrifice would always be remembered.
He also revealed that ongoing military operations have intensified in recent times, with land and air offensives targeting insurgent groups. According to him, the latest attack reflects the desperation of the terrorists.
The President extended special condolences to the families of the deceased, including those of Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah, who was among those killed in the incident.
Encouraging members of the armed forces, Tinubu urged them to remain resolute and not be discouraged, calling on them to continue serving the nation with courage and dedication.
He assured that the Federal Government would continue to support the military by providing necessary equipment and prioritizing the welfare of personnel.
Tinubu also appealed to Nigerians and the media to stand behind the armed forces and avoid glorifying attacks against them, emphasizing that the fallen soldiers are irreplaceable national heroes.
He further extended his sympathies to the government and people of Borno State, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to working towards lasting peace and defeating insurgency.
The attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria’s North-East, where troops have been engaged in a prolonged battle against insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province.
Reports indicate that the assault led to the death of Brigadier-General Braimah and several soldiers, with military assets and structures destroyed during the attack. The incident follows a similar loss of a senior officer, Brigadier-General Musa Uba, in recent months.