ISWAP overruns military base, kills soldiers in Borno

By Evi Abinama

Borno State has remained a hotspot for terrorist activities for over a decade.

Military intelligence indicated

The Boko Haram insurgency, which later split into factions, continues to wreak havoc in the northeastern region.

Diaspora digital media (DDM) gathered that One of the most dangerous factions is the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), which has intensified attacks on security formations.

Despite military efforts to combat insurgents, attacks persist, causing loss of lives and destruction of property.

On Monday, March 25, 2025, ISWAP launched a deadly assault on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wajiroko.

The attack occurred around 10:00 p.m., catching Nigerian troops off guard and leading to severe casualties.

At least three soldiers lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries in the brutal assault.

Among the wounded was the commander of the 25 Brigade, Brigadier General U.F. Abubakar.

Military sources confirmed that the base came under heavy fire, forcing troops to request immediate air support.

Reinforcement teams were quickly deployed to assist the embattled troops at the FOB.

However, the first reinforcement team encountered an improvised explosive device (IED) along the main supply route.

The explosion halted their advance, making it difficult for them to reach the base in time.

Realizing the situation, a second reinforcement team was dispatched under the leadership of the brigade commander.

While moving toward Azir Bridge, the second team also struck an IED, worsening the situation.

The blast resulted in the deaths of three soldiers and injuries to other personnel, including the brigade commander.

Two wounded soldiers were later identified as Private Mohammed Hashim and Corporal Ibrahim Musa.

Military intelligence indicated that the insurgents might have overrun the base during the attack.

A surveillance drone captured visible flames engulfing the FOB, suggesting widespread destruction.

Reports also showed troops retreating toward Sabongari, a nearby community, in an apparent withdrawal.

The security situation in the area remained highly volatile, with troops on high alert.

The Nigerian military has yet to issue an official statement regarding the attack.

However, reinforcement operations were reportedly ongoing to assess the situation and prevent further losses.

Air support was called in to track insurgent movements and provide necessary cover for ground troops.

Communication with some affected units remained limited due to the severity of the attack.

The identities of the fallen soldiers were withheld pending notification of their families.

This attack raises concerns about the security of military bases in conflict-prone areas.

Despite efforts to degrade ISWAP’s operational capacity, the group continues to carry out coordinated assaults.

The use of IEDs by insurgents indicates a tactical shift aimed at weakening military response efforts.

Security analysts believe enhanced intelligence and surveillance are needed to counter future attacks.

The Nigerian military has made progress in combating insurgency but faces persistent challenges from well-coordinated enemy forces.

Repeated attacks on military bases suggest vulnerabilities that need urgent attention from defense authorities.

ISWAP remains determined to expand its influence, posing a significant threat to national security.

The attack at Wajiroko emphasizes the need for improved logistics and reinforcements in vulnerable locations.

Security experts recommend better coordination between military units and intelligence agencies to prevent further losses.

Residents of surrounding communities remain on edge, fearing possible spillover attacks from the insurgents.

The Nigerian government must strengthen counter-insurgency operations to safeguard military personnel and civilians.

Military authorities are expected to release further details once they complete their assessments of the situation.

For now, security forces continue operations to secure the area and track fleeing insurgents.

This attack serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in the fight against terrorism.

As the military regroups, questions remain about the long-term strategy to contain ISWAP’s growing threats.

The situation in Borno remains tense, with authorities monitoring developments closely.

More updates are expected as military operations progress in the coming days.

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