The Nigerian Army has officially confirmed a series of deadly attacks by armed groups on its military bases in Niger and Kaduna states on June 24, 2025. These coordinated assaults targeted forward operating bases in Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger State, as well as Aungwan Turai in the Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State. The military described the incidents as a “three-pronged attack,” involving a substantial number of armed bandits, estimated at around 300, particularly during an attempted incursion into Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.

In immediate response to these audacious attacks, troops from both land and air components of the Nigerian military launched swift and aggressive counter-attacks. These fierce engagements, some lasting over three hours, resulted in the neutralization of scores of bandits, with reports of multiple blood trails indicating significant enemy losses. The Nigerian Air Force played a crucial role by conducting precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering heavy bombardments on identified locations to disrupt their escape and further plans.

Tragically, these battles came at a significant cost for the Nigerian Army. Seventeen brave and gallant soldiers paid the supreme price during the encounters, making the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. Additionally, ten other soldiers sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently receiving medical treatment at a military medical facility, where their conditions are reported to be stable. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and directed that the injured troops receive the best possible medical care. Relevant army departments have also been tasked with engaging and supporting the affected families.

The military noted that the criminals had attempted a night-time transit towards Kwatankoro Forest, where they were reportedly planning coordinated attacks on surrounding communities or seeking a safe haven to evade pressure from ongoing operations in Zamfara State. This series of attacks occurred within a broader context of escalating insecurity in the region, following recent reports of bandits killing about 15 residents in Tofa village, Zamfara, and a separate gunfight claiming at least 100 lives near Cida village in Sokoto State. Armed groups active in Niger State, including Dogo Gide’s group, remnants of Ali Kawaje’s gang, and the Mallam Sadiku-led Boko Haram faction, frequently target civilians, military personnel, and local miners, engaging in cattle rustling, kidnapping for ransom, and violence.

Clearance operations are actively underway in the surrounding areas to pursue and apprehend those who fled the scene. The Nigerian Army reiterated its unwavering commitment to securing all communities and protecting the lives and property of all citizens across the nation. They emphasized that the sanctity of Nigeria’s freedom would not be compromised and affirmed their continuous collaboration with the Nigerian Navy, Air Force, other security agencies, and the general public to bring an end to terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminality. Members of the public are encouraged to continue supporting these counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely and actionable information to security agencies.