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The Nigerian Army under the Joint Task Force North East (Operation HADIN KAI) has dismissed as false and exaggerated an online report claiming more than 40 soldiers were killed in recent Boko Haram attacks across Borno State.
In an official statement, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer for Operation HADIN KAI, described the story as “based largely on unverified sources” and warned the public to disregard the report, which he said misrepresents the situation on the ground and is aimed at undermining the morale of troops who continue to make enormous sacrifices in defence of the nation.
According to the Army’s account, remnants of Boko Haram, dislodged earlier from the Sambisa Forest by sustained offensive operations, regrouped and launched coordinated night attacks from multiple directions on vulnerable communities and troop locations around Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok and Jakana. Troops on the ground “responded swiftly and fought gallantly to repel the terrorists,” the statement said, noting that a number of insurgents were neutralised during the engagements.
“Sadly, a Commanding Officer and some brave soldiers paid the supreme price while courageously confronting the attackers and preventing further devastation on other communities,” the statement acknowledged, stopping short of the casualty figures circulated online. The Army emphasised that troops were not overrun, contrary to the online report, but actively engaged the attackers from multiple fronts to protect civilians and restore normalcy.
Lt. Col. Uba further said terrorists employed indiscriminate explosives and heavy night gunfire, which regrettably caused civilian casualties as residents were caught in the crossfire. He urged members of the public to avoid circulating unverified reports that distort operational realities and weaken public confidence in security efforts.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has visited the theatre of operations in Maiduguri to reassess the situation, meet with commanders and troops, and strengthen ongoing counter‑terrorism efforts. During the visit, the COAS directed immediate reinforcement of troops and the deployment of additional equipment to affected areas to sustain pressure on fleeing terrorists.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to maintain operational momentum until all terrorist elements are completely neutralised and called on citizens to support verified official channels for accurate information.
Issued by: Lt. Col. Sani Uba, Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) — Operation HADIN KAI.
