By John Moses
The Nigerian Army has confirmed that 17 of its personnel have been killed and 10 others injured during a violent confrontation with armed terrorists in Niger State’s Mariga local government area.
In a statement released on Wednesday, the Army said the troops were part of a joint operation with the Nigerian Air Force that successfully foiled an attempted incursion by approximately 300 armed militants into Bangi community on 24 June.
According to the Army’s acting spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the operation was launched based on credible intelligence indicating terrorist movements through Kwanar Dutse Forest, with the aim of relocating to Kwatankoro Forest — an area believed to serve as a hideout and staging ground for attacks across north-western Nigeria.
“The terrorists were intercepted by ground forces and engaged in a three-hour gun battle,” Anele said. “Subsequent precision airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force targeted retreating fighters, with multiple blood trails discovered along their escape routes, indicating substantial enemy losses.”
While the full extent of casualties among the attackers remains unclear, the Army confirmed the loss of 17 soldiers, with 10 others wounded and receiving medical care at a military facility. All injured personnel are reported to be in stable condition.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, visited the area on Wednesday to commend the troops for their bravery and to raise morale. He extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, pledging that the Nigerian Army would continue to support and care for them.
“This is a painful sacrifice for peace,” said General Oluyede. “We remain resolute in defending our nation’s sovereignty and protecting our people.”
The Army reiterated its commitment to ending terrorism and called on the public to assist security forces with timely and accurate information.
