Behind the military’s successful defence of a base in Borno State are the stories of eight men who did not return home. Five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) lost their lives after confronting terrorists who launched a pre-dawn attack on the Forward Operating Base in Mandaragirau, authorities confirmed on Friday.

The attack occurred at about 3:00 a.m. when insurgents reportedly attempted to exploit heavy rainfall and poor visibility to penetrate the military installation. According to Operation HADIN KAI, the base, which falls under the 25 Brigade of Sector 2 in Borno State, came under intense assault as troops worked to prevent a breach of the facility.

Military officials said personnel stationed at the base responded immediately, engaging the attackers in a fierce battle that involved close-quarter combat. Despite the challenging weather conditions, the troops were able to halt the advance of the insurgents and prevent them from gaining control of any part of the base.

However, the confrontation came at a significant cost. Operation HADIN KAI said five soldiers were killed during the exchange of fire, while three CJTF operatives fighting alongside the military also lost their lives. Some military equipment was damaged during the encounter, reflecting the intensity of the battle.

The military said injured personnel were evacuated by the Air Component Command and taken for medical treatment. Officials noted that those receiving care are in stable condition, while military operations continued in the area to prevent any regrouping by the attackers.

Although the base remained under military control after the attack, authorities described the fallen soldiers and CJTF members as individuals who made the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of their country and communities. Operation HADIN KAI added that additional troops and combat assets have since been deployed to strengthen security in the region as clearance operations continue across parts of the North-East.