Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to defeat terrorism, declaring that recent attacks by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State in northern Nigeria will not weaken the nation’s resolve.
Mourning the killing of Brigadier General Oseni Braimah and other soldiers during a coordinated assault on a military base in Benisheikh in Borno State,.Tinubu described the incident as tragic, but insisted it underscored the desperation of insurgents facing sustained military pressure.
In a statement by his Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu commended the bravery of troops under Operation Hadin Kai, particularly the 29 Task Force Brigade, who resisted the attack and prevented the insurgents from overrunning surrounding communities.
He expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and the Armed Forces, assuring that their sacrifices would not be forgotten.
According to him, ongoing land and air offensives have significantly weakened insurgent groups, and recent counterattacks reflect their declining strength.
Tinubu urged troops across all theatres of operation to remain resolute, emphasising that the Nigerian government would continue to provide the necessary equipment and welfare support to enhance their effectiveness.
He also called on Nigerians and the media to support the military and avoid glorifying attacks on security personnel, describing the fallen soldiers as “heroes whose sacrifices are irreplaceable.”
Meanwhile, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed the attack and appealed for restraint in reporting casualties, stressing the need to respect military protocols, particularly the notification of next of kin before public disclosures.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said that troops responded with “exceptional courage and superior firepower,” repelling the insurgents and forcing them to retreat.
He added that follow-up operations were underway to track and eliminate the fleeing fighters.
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, paid tribute to the fallen soldiers, describing their sacrifice as a source of national pride and a testament to the Armed Forces’ commitment to securing the country.
GIK/APA