The Nigerian Army, operating under the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai, has rejected reports claiming that more than 40 soldiers were killed in multiple attacks by Boko Haram in Borno State.
In a statement released on Saturday, the spokesperson of the operation, Sani Uba, described the reports as exaggerated and misleading.
According to him, the claims relied on unverified sources and failed to acknowledge the efforts of troops who defended communities during the attacks.
The Army explained that the attacks occurred after remnants of Boko Haram fighters regrouped following earlier military offensives that forced them out of Sambisa Forest.
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The terrorists reportedly launched coordinated night assaults on communities and military positions around: Konduga, Ngoshe, Mainok, Jakana.
Troops stationed in the areas responded quickly and engaged the attackers.
According to the statement, several terrorists were neutralised during the intense clashes.
The Army acknowledged that casualties occurred during the fighting but rejected claims that troops were overwhelmed.
Officials confirmed that a commanding officer and several soldiers died while defending communities from the attackers.
However, the military insisted that the troops were not overrun, as suggested in some reports.
The attackers reportedly used explosives and heavy gunfire, which also led to civilian casualties when residents were caught in the crossfire.
Following the incident, the Waidi Shaibu visited the theatre of operations in Maiduguri to meet with commanders and assess the security situation.
During the visit, the Army chief ordered the reinforcement of troops and the deployment of additional equipment to affected areas.
The directive aims to strengthen ongoing counter-terrorism operations and maintain pressure on fleeing insurgents.
The Nigerian Army denies 40 soldiers killed report while assuring citizens that military operations against terrorist groups will continue until insurgents are completely defeated.
Authorities emphasised that troops remain committed to protecting civilians and restoring stability across northeastern Nigeria.
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