The Nigerian Army has confirmed the tragic death of a senior Commanding Officer after terrorists launched a deadly assault on troops stationed in Monguno, Borno State, in the early hours of Monday.
According to a statement issued by the Media Information Officer of Headquarters, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI, Lt. Col. Sani Uba, the attack also claimed the lives of six other soldiers, despite a fierce response from troops on the ground.
The Army said the troops engaged the attackers in a heavy exchange of gunfire and eventually forced them to retreat, regaining full control of the area after the clash.
However, tragedy struck when the Commanding Officer, who was reportedly moving toward the frontline to assess the situation and support his men, drove into an Improvised Explosive Device (IED). The explosion destroyed his vehicle and killed him along with six personnel.
The statement praised the late officer’s courage, describing his final actions as a reflection of true military leadership – one defined by bravery, sacrifice, and leading from the front even in extreme danger.
Lt. Col. Sani Uba expressed deep sorrow over the loss, noting that the fallen soldiers gave their lives in service to the nation and would be remembered for their dedication and sacrifice.
The statement read in part that troops of Sector 3, Operation HADIN KAI, came under a coordinated terrorist attack on a location in Monguno on April 12, 2026, but successfully repelled the assault and maintained control of the area.
While the Army did not officially release the name of the fallen Commanding Officer, earlier reports identified him as Colonel I.A. Muhammad.
