THE Nigerian Army has announced that troops under the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI successfully repelled a Boko Haram assault in the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government, Borno State, on October 17, 2025.
According to a statement signed by Brigadier General Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade launched a counteroffensive after detecting the terrorists’ plan to attack civilians and disrupt socio-economic activities in the region.
The army confirmed that several insurgents were neutralized during the intense gunfight, while others sustained injuries.
However, the encounter also claimed the lives of some soldiers, including Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion.
“These brave heroes fought gallantly for the peace and unity of our nation. Their legacies will endure forever,” the statement read.
The Nigerian Army expressed deep sorrow over the loss, describing the fallen personnel as courageous patriots who made the ultimate sacrifice to defend the country.
In his condolence message, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, extended sympathy to the families of the deceased, affirming that the army remains resolute in its mission to eradicate terrorism and restore peace to the North-East and other troubled regions.
“They were not just soldiers, but fathers, brothers, and sons who took a final stand in the face of adversity. We stand together with their families in this time of grief,” Oluyede said.
The statement further urged the public and media to refrain from sharing images of fallen personnel until their next of kin have been formally notified, emphasizing the need to preserve their dignity and protect the privacy of their families.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its determination to continue operations against terrorist elements across the country until total peace and stability are achieved.