Commander, six soldiers killed as troops repel terrorist attack in Borno – THIS UPDATE

By Victor Osula Abuja

Another commander and six soldiers were killed after troops from Sector 3 of the Joint Task Force (North-East), Operation HADIN KAI, repelled a terrorist attack on a military post in Monguno, Borno state.

A statement released on Monday by Operation HADIN KAI Media Information Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, said the attack occurred late on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at the location of Charlie 13, where troops engaged the insurgents in a fierce firefight.

The army said the troops “successfully repelled the terrorist attack”, adding that they “engaged the terrorists in a fierce firefight and forced them to retreat from the location”, while maintaining control of the location during the encounter.

However, the military revealed that tragedy struck shortly after the encounter when the commanding officer, who had moved to the front line to assess the situation, crashed into an improvised explosive device (IED).

The statement reads: “The commanding officer, while heading towards the location to assess the situation and coordinate subsequent actions, unfortunately collided with an improvised explosive device (IED). The explosion severely damaged his vehicle, resulting in the death of the commanding officer and six other personnel.”

Describing the late officer, the military said he demonstrated exceptional courage and leadership: “His actions, even after the immediate threat had been neutralized, reflected the highest traditions of military leadership; courage, selfless service and leadership from the front.

“His willingness to approach troops in the heat of battle, despite the prevailing danger, stands as a profound testament to his valor, sense of duty and unwavering commitment to the well-being and operational effectiveness of his men.”

Operation HADIN KAI expressed deep sorrow over the loss of personnel, saying: “Operation HADIN KAI deeply mourns the loss of this outstanding officer and other brave personnel who paid the supreme price in service to the nation.”

The statement added that “their sacrifice will forever remain etched in the memory of the Armed Forces and the grateful nation they served.”

Despite the setback, the military reaffirmed its commitment to supporting counterinsurgency operations in the northeast, saying troops “remain determined to deny terrorists freedom of action and continue operations aimed at restoring lasting peace to the region.”

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