The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of two soldiers following separate attempts by Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters to overrun military locations in New Marte and Kumshe, both in Borno State.
The attacks, which occurred in the early hours of Tuesday, were successfully repelled by troops of Operation Hadin Kai with strong air support, according to a statement issued by the Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, Headquarters Theatre Command, Reuben Kovangiya.
“In the early hours of May 27, 2025, troops of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) foiled an attack by Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists on their location in New Marte, Borno State,” the statement said.
“The terrorists attempted to infiltrate the troops’ location but were met with heavy gunfire. The Air Component provided immediate Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance and offensive fire support, leading to the decimation of several fleeing terrorists.”
Kovangiya confirmed that the operation was a joint effort between ground forces and the Nigerian Air Force, which played a key role in pushing back the insurgents.
“Regrettably, two soldiers paid the ultimate sacrifice during the encounter,” he said.
Barely hours after the first clash, troops at the Forward Operating Base in Kumshe also came under attack. However, the army says the terrorists were unable to penetrate the base.
“The collaborative effort demonstrates the renewed jointness and team spirit in the fight against terrorism, geared towards bringing lasting peace to enable socio-economic activities to thrive in the North East region,” Kovangiya added.
During the counter-offensive, soldiers recovered an SUV rigged as a Vehicle Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) which the terrorists abandoned while retreating. Several motorcycles used by the attackers were also destroyed.
“During exploitation of the area, troops discovered lifeless bodies of the terrorists, with traces of blood on their withdrawal routes, indicating additional casualties inflicted on the terrorists,” the statement noted.
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