The President mourned soldiers of the 29 Task Force Brigade, Operation HADIN KAI, killed during a terrorist attack on their base in Benisheikh, Borno State. He described them as “unforgettable heroes” whose sacrifices will not be in vain.
A statement by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, which was available to Ayemafuge said the President urged Nigerians and the media to support the Armed Forces in ongoing operations against insurgency and banditry. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed that the terrorists launched a coordinated attack on the brigade headquarters around 12:30am yesterday but were repelled by troops after a fierce exchange.
President Tinubu commiserated with the military leadership, families of the fallen troops, as well as the government and people of Borno State, praising the soldiers for their courage in preventing the attackers from overrunning nearby communities.
He said sustained land and air offensives by the Armed Forces had neutralised several insurgent fighters and commanders, describing the latest attack as a desperate response by weakened terrorists.
“The government will never forget their sacrifices. 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,” the President said. He urged the military high command and troops across theatres of operation not to be discouraged, assuring them of continued government support in equipment provision and welfare.
Tinubu also cautioned Nigerians and the media against narratives that could undermine troop morale.
“These soldiers are our heroes; unforgettable and irreplaceable,” he said, while reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to working with the Borno State Government to end terrorism.
Giving details on the attack, the DHQ said the insurgents attempted to breach the brigade’s perimeter but were repelled with superior firepower by troops led by Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, described the attack as a sign of desperation by insurgents who had suffered heavy losses in recent operations. “Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty,” he said. Onoja said the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifice, describing their courage as a source of pride to the nation.
The military authorities extended condolences to the families of the fallen personnel, urging the media to allow formal notification of next of kin before publishing names and further details.
It also cautioned the public against misinformation and unverified reports capable of undermining ongoing operations and national security. According to the Defence Headquarters, clearance operations were ongoing in the area to track fleeing insurgents and to prevent them from regrouping.
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