DHQ confirms ISWAP attack on Borno military base

By Damilare Adeleye

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed a coordinated attack by ISWAP terrorists on the 29 Task Force Brigade Headquarters in Benisheikh, Borno State. The military high command disclosed that the encounter resulted in fatalities among both the insurgents and military personnel.

While reports circulated that the Brigade Commander, Brigadier-General Oseni Braimah, was among the casualties, the DHQ remained silent on specific identities. According to the military, the attack occurred at approximately 12:30 a.m. on April 9, 2026, when insurgents attempted to breach the defensive perimeter of the installation.

In a statement released on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, stated that troops of Operation HADIN KAI, led by the brigade commander, responded with “exceptional courage, professionalism, and superior firepower,” ultimately forcing the attackers to retreat in disarray.

“This attack is a clear indication of the desperation of terrorist elements who, having suffered significant losses in recent operations, continue to resort to futile and ill-fated offensives against well-defended military positions,” the statement added.

The military officially acknowledged the loss of personnel during the fierce exchange. “Regrettably, the encounter resulted in the loss of a few brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in the line of duty. The Chief of Defence Staff honours their heroism, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to the defence of the nation,” the DHQ noted.

The High Command extended condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information on social media. The Defence Headquarters further disclosed that clearance operations are currently ongoing in the general area to track down fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping.