The Nigerian Army has officially confirmed the tragic death of 17 soldiers following a fierce and prolonged gun battle with heavily armed bandits in Niger State. The encounter, described as intense and heroic, occurred during an attempt by over 300 armed bandits to launch an attack on the peaceful Bangi community in the Mariga Local Government Area.
According to a statement released by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt. Col Apolonia Anele, the gallant soldiers lost their lives while trying to intercept and neutralize the threat posed by the invading criminal elements. She noted that the confrontation took place deep in the Kwanar Dutse Forest, where troops, backed by the Nigerian Air Force, engaged the insurgents in a high-powered exchange of gunfire that lasted for more than three hours.
“Their movement and actions were effectively disrupted by troops who engaged them in a fierce fire-fight that lasted over three hours,” Lt. Col Anele stated, acknowledging the bravery and determination of the soldiers who stood firm in the face of overwhelming numbers.
While the operation led to a significant disruption of the terrorists' plans, the toll on the military was heavy. Seventeen soldiers were confirmed dead, and ten others sustained varying degrees of injuries. The injured personnel have since been evacuated to a military medical facility where they are currently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
Further details provided by Lt. Col Anele revealed that intelligence reports had indicated the terrorists were either plotting coordinated assaults on multiple communities or seeking safe passage away from intensified military operations in nearby Zamfara State. Acting swiftly on this intelligence, troops mobilized and executed a ground operation which was closely followed by aerial support from the Nigerian Air Force.
“Sequel to the ground engagement by Nigerian Army troops, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering accurate heavy bombardments on identified terrorists’ locations,” Lt. Col Anele confirmed.
She also mentioned that although the actual number of terrorist casualties remains unverified, several blood trails along the escape routes strongly suggest that the insurgents suffered significant losses. The army is continuing surveillance and operations in the area to determine the full extent of the damage inflicted on the enemy.
“Regrettably, seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounter, while ten others sustained varying degrees of injury,” she reiterated with deep sorrow. She emphasized that despite the loss, the mission to eliminate threats and protect Nigerian citizens remains unwavering.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes. He also assured the public that the best possible medical care would be provided to the injured soldiers. “The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of our fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the service of our great country, Nigeria,” Lt. Col Anele stated.
She further noted that the relevant Nigerian Army departments have been tasked with engaging the bereaved families and providing them with all necessary support during this difficult time. These departments will also ensure that the sacrifices of the deceased soldiers are duly honored and remembered.
Lt. Col Anele reaffirmed the Nigerian Army's unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and properties of all Nigerians. “The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to secure all communities and protect the lives and property of all our citizens across the nation,” she said. “The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged and the Nigerian Army, in collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies and of course, the great people of our nation will continue to work tirelessly to see an end to terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality plaguing our society.”
In her concluding remarks, Lt. Col Anele appealed to the public for their continued cooperation and support. “Members of the public are hereby encouraged to continue to support the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely information to security agencies by any means possible,” she urged.