A deadly ambush by Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State has claimed the lives of Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, and several of his troops. The tragic encounter occurred in the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government Area during a fierce gunfight between the Nigerian Army and the terrorists.
In a statement issued on Monday, the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Major Appolonia Anele, confirmed the incident, explaining that troops of Operation Hadin Kai, under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, successfully repelled a planned assault by the insurgents but suffered significant casualties in the process. She revealed that the troops had launched a counteroffensive on October 17, 2025, after intelligence reports indicated suspicious movements of Boko Haram fighters around the Kashimri axis.
According to Anele, the encounter quickly escalated into a heavy exchange of gunfire that lasted for hours. Despite being outnumbered, the soldiers fought gallantly, neutralising several insurgents and destroying multiple terrorist hideouts. Their bravery, she said, prevented what could have been a devastating attack on civilians and vital infrastructure within Bama and nearby communities. “The courage and swift response of our troops frustrated the terrorists’ plan to destabilise peace and security in the region. Many of the insurgents fled with gunshot wounds as our forces maintained operational dominance,” she stated.
The Army spokesperson described Lieutenant Colonel Paiko and his men as heroes whose sacrifices would never be forgotten. She said their commitment and patriotism represent the finest values of the Nigerian Army. “We deeply mourn these courageous men who gave their lives in defence of our nation. Their selfless service will forever inspire us to continue the fight against terrorism until peace is fully restored,” Major Anele said.
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, has sent heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers. He described them as fathers, brothers, and sons who demonstrated exceptional bravery in the face of danger, reaffirming the Army’s commitment to sustaining military pressure on terrorist groups until lasting peace is achieved across the North-East and the country at large.
The Nigerian Army also appealed to the public and media outlets to refrain from circulating photos or videos of the fallen soldiers until their families have been officially notified. The statement emphasised the importance of preserving the dignity of the deceased and respecting the privacy of their loved ones during this difficult time.