17 Nigerian Soldiers Killed in Deadly Terrorist Ambush in Niger State, Army Confirms

The Nigerian Army has officially confirmed the tragic loss of 17 soldiers in a brutal terrorist ambush on a military base situated in Bangi, within the Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

This confirmation follows a wave of online reports that surfaced a day earlier, highlighting a surprise terrorist attack that claimed the lives of at least 20 military personnel and left several others seriously injured.

In a statement made public on Wednesday, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, revealed that the troops were attacked by a heavily armed terrorist faction, believed to be approximately 300 in number, operating out of the notorious Kwanar Dutse Forest.

“Utilizing actionable intelligence, our troops engaged these terrorists in an intense three-hour-long firefight,” the Army spokesperson stated. “They successfully disrupted the terrorists’ attempt to infiltrate Kwatankoro Forest, where they were either regrouping for future attacks or seeking a safe haven from the ongoing military operations in Zamfara State.”

To bolster ground operations, the Nigerian Air Force launched targeted precision airstrikes against the terrorists’ escape routes. These aerial offensives reportedly inflicted significant casualties on the fleeing militants.

Although an exact enemy body count wasn’t disclosed, Anele confirmed that multiple blood trails were discovered along the withdrawal paths, suggesting substantial losses on the terrorists’ side.

“Unfortunately, during this heroic resistance, seventeen valiant Nigerian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice,” Anele continued. “An additional ten personnel sustained varying levels of injury during the encounter.”

She added that all injured personnel have been promptly evacuated to military medical facilities, where they are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

In a heartfelt tribute, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, expressed his deep condolences to the families and loved ones of the fallen heroes. He acknowledged their courage and commitment to national defense, stating that their sacrifice would never be forgotten.

He further ordered that the best available medical attention be provided to the wounded troops to ensure a speedy and complete recovery.