Troops of the Nigerian Army, backed by the Nigerian Air Force, have repelled a major terrorist incursion into Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, killing scores of terrorists in a three-hour firefight.
By Chimezie Godfrey
Troops of the Nigerian Army, backed by the Nigerian Air Force, have repelled a major terrorist incursion into Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State, killing scores of terrorists in a three-hour firefight.
The coordinated operation, which took place on 24 June 2025, followed credible intelligence that about 300 armed terrorists were transiting through Kwanar Dutse Forest en route Kwatankoro Forest. The attackers were believed to be regrouping for assaults on nearby communities or seeking to escape the heat of ongoing military operations in Zamfara State.
According to a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the troops engaged the heavily armed fighters in a fierce night-time gun battle that lasted over three hours. Air Force jets later joined the operation, conducting precision strikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes.
”Multiple blood trails along their escape paths suggest significant enemy losses,” the statement noted, though the exact casualty figures remain unconfirmed. Mopping-up operations are still ongoing in the area.
Tragically, 17 Nigerian soldiers lost their lives in the operation, and 10 others sustained injuries. The wounded have been evacuated to military hospitals and are said to be in stable condition.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the fallen heroes. “Their sacrifice in defence of our great nation will never be forgotten,” he said, while assuring that the best possible care is being given to the injured.
He further directed relevant Army departments to provide full support to the families of the deceased and praised the courage and resilience of the troops involved in the operation.
”The Nigerian Army remains unwavering in its resolve to protect lives, secure communities, and defend our nation’s sovereignty,” the Army spokesperson said, urging citizens to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations by providing timely and actionable intelligence.
The military reiterated its commitment to ending terrorism and banditry in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, other security agencies, and the Nigerian people.