Tension is mounting once again in Borno State following a tragic attack by Boko Haram insurgents on a Nigerian military base. The assault, which took place over the weekend near the Bula Yobe area in Bama Local Government Area, left several soldiers dead and others reportedly captured. The incident has reignited widespread concerns about the safety of both troops and civilians in Nigeria’s northeast.
A Surprise Attack in the Night
According to military sources and local vigilantes, the insurgents launched the attack late at night, taking soldiers at the base by surprise. They reportedly arrived in large numbers, heavily armed, and opened fire from multiple directions—leaving troops overwhelmed.
“They came in the night, heavily armed and in large numbers,” said a vigilante source in Maiduguri who spoke under the condition of anonymity. “Our soldiers fought bravely, but they were clearly outnumbered.”
Casualties and Soldiers Taken Captive
Although the Nigerian Army has yet to release an official casualty count, multiple reports indicate that at least a dozen soldiers were killed, and several more were injured. A number of troops were also allegedly taken captive by the attackers.
Disturbing footage that surfaced online—reportedly released by the insurgents—shows masked men parading individuals dressed in military uniforms. While the videos have yet to be authenticated by authorities, they’ve sparked serious concern over the fate of the captured soldiers.
Security analysts believe the attack was not a random strike but a calculated effort to reassert Boko Haram’s presence in Borno, particularly near the Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad regions—areas that have long served as strongholds for extremist groups.
A Reminder That Boko Haram Is Still a Threat
This incident serves as a grim reminder that, despite years of military operations and significant financial investment in national defense, Boko Haram and its offshoots—especially ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province)—remain active and dangerous.
While the Nigerian military has recorded several successes in recent months, including airstrikes and territory recovery in parts of Borno and Yobe states, events like this highlight the group’s ability to strike unexpectedly and cause real damage.
“It’s not just about who is winning on paper,” said security expert Kabiru Adamu. “It’s about who is able to maintain consistent control. And clearly, insurgents still have the capability to disrupt that control.”
Low Morale Among Troops
The impact of this attack goes beyond casualties—it has struck a serious blow to troop morale. Soldiers on the frontlines continue to express frustration over inadequate support, delayed reinforcements, and limited equipment.
“We’re giving our best, but it sometimes feels like we’re on our own out here,” said one soldier stationed in Maiduguri, speaking anonymously. “This is not a war we can win without proper tools and backup.”
Communities on Edge Once More
Local communities near the scene of the attack are also rattled. Many internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had started returning to their villages are now reconsidering due to rising insecurity.
“We were hopeful things were getting better,” said Halima Usman, an IDP in Maiduguri. “But now we’re scared again. If the soldiers themselves are not safe, what about us?”
Residents are worried that renewed insurgent activity could trigger another round of displacement, further straining humanitarian resources in the region.
Growing Calls for a Smarter Security Strategy
Following the attack, there’s been a renewed call for a shift in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy. Security experts and civil society advocates believe that a purely military approach is not enough to bring lasting peace.
“We need more than just firepower,” said human rights activist Aisha Wakil, popularly known as Mama Boko Haram. “The root causes of extremism—poverty, lack of education, and broken systems—need to be addressed. Otherwise, we’ll keep going in circles.”
In Abuja, lawmakers are echoing similar sentiments. Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South, has consistently advocated for increased military funding, better troop welfare, and a stronger focus on intelligence-led operations.
“We cannot continue to lose our soldiers like this,” he told reporters. “The government must step up its game and prioritize national security in every sense.”
Presidency Responds, Military Begins Investigation
While a full statement from the Nigerian Army is still pending, military sources confirm that an investigation has already begun, and a counter-offensive is underway to recover captured personnel and neutralize the attackers.
The presidency has condemned the attack and assured Nigerians that it remains committed to ending insurgency in the region.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is deeply concerned about the loss of life and the safety of our troops,” read a statement from the Special Adviser on Media and Publicity. “He has instructed the Chief of Defence Staff to take all necessary actions to restore calm and ensure the safety of both military personnel and civilians.”
Holding On to Hope
Despite the grim nature of this incident, hope still lingers among many in Borno. Local vigilante groups, the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), and humanitarian agencies continue to work tirelessly to protect civilians and provide basic support to affected communities.
“The people of Borno have endured so much over the years,” said Joseph Ayoola, a humanitarian worker based in Maiduguri. “But their strength and resilience inspire us every day. What they need now is assurance that they are not alone.”
For the families of the fallen and missing soldiers, the pain is real—but so is their hope. As the Nigerian military regroups and launches its counter-efforts, the nation watches closely, united in its desire for peace and security.
Because for those living on the frontlines of this conflict, every day is a fight—not just for survival, but for the chance to live without fear.