Troops of the Nigerian Army have repelled a major overnight attack on Chibok communities in Borno State after more than 300 terrorists launched a coordinated assault from multiple fronts in the early hours of Friday.
The attack, which began at about 2:50 a.m., was thwarted by troops of the 28 Task Force Brigade who were already on high alert. According to military sources, early detection of enemy movement enabled the soldiers to swiftly assume defensive positions and engage the terrorists with superior firepower.
The fierce gun battle lasted for over two hours, during which troops successfully prevented the insurgents from breaching Chibok and surrounding towns. Military authorities said the decisive response demonstrated the troops’ high level of preparedness and tactical proficiency.
At daybreak, the terrorists began a chaotic withdrawal toward the Azir axis leading into Sambisa Forest, attempting to cross the Main Supply Route along the Damboa–Biu road. In a coordinated effort to intercept the fleeing insurgents, 25 Brigade moved into pre-designated ambush positions near the Azir Bridge. Their movement was guided by real-time surveillance from a Nigerian Army Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV).
The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI also deployed a Super Tucano aircraft to support the operation. As advancing forces closed in, the terrorists scattered, allowing troops to further disrupt their withdrawal. The Army confirmed that no personnel or equipment was lost during the encounter.
Exploitative operations around Chibok are still underway, with security forces intensifying efforts to track fleeing elements and deny them freedom of movement. Footage of the mass withdrawal of the terrorists has been obtained and is currently being analyzed to support follow-on operations.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of all citizens, pledging to maintain relentless pressure on terrorist groups in the region.
