The Nigerian Army has declared a three-day mourning period in honour of seventeen soldiers who lost their lives in active service during an attack by terrorists in Niger State.
The Army, in a statement released via its official social media handles, said all its formations and units have been directed to fly the Nigerian Army flag at half-mast during the mourning period, which is from June 25th to June 27th, 2025
Naijaonpoint recalls a fierce battle occurred between troops of the Nigerian Army and some terrorists in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
According to a statement on Wednesday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, troops foiled a deadly attack by terrorists in Niger State and engaged the criminals in a fierce battle.
Anele said the encounter occurred on Tuesday in the Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
He explained that the terrorists had attempted a night-time transit towards Kwatankoro forest, but their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce firefight that lasted over three hours.
The Army statement disclosed that, unfortunately, seventeen soldiers lost their lives during the encounter, while ten others sustained various degrees of injury and are currently receiving treatment in a medical facility.
The troops also inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists, though the exact number of terrorists killed could not be ascertained.
Following the death of soldiers during the encounter, the Army declared a mourning period as a mark of respect to the fallen heroes and extended its heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones.
“It is with profound respect that the Nigerian Army declares a three-day mourning period, from June 25th to June 27th, 2025, to honor the bravery and sacrifice of 17 courageous soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty at Kwana Dutse Local Government Area, Niger State.
“As a mark of solemn tribute, all Nigerian Army formations and units have been directed to fly the Nigerian Army flag at half-mast.
“During this period, we pay our deepest respects to these fallen heroes and extend our heartfelt condolences to their families and loved ones. Their unwavering dedication, valor, and sacrifice in defense of our nation will forever be remembered and cherished,” the Army statement read.