Nigerian Army has confirmed that a routine patrol around Wajiroko in the Azir–Multe axis of Damboa Local Government Area turned deadly when troops of the 25 Task Force Brigade came under a “sudden and heavy insurgents fire” while returning from operations along the fringes of Sambisa Forest.
The patrol team, led by the Commander of 25 Task Force Brigade, Brigadier General M. Uba, included soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF).
According to the Army, the troops “courageously fought through the insurgents ambush with superior fire power, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and to abandon their mission.”
Despite the successful breakout, the Army said the encounter claimed the lives of two soldiers and two CJTF members, describing them as brave and heroic personnel who “paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation.”
In a statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, Acting Director of Army Public Relations, the military high command extended condolences to the families and colleagues of the fallen operatives and praised the resilience of forces confronting insurgency in the North-East.
The Army also moved to dispel social media rumours alleging that the Brigade Commander had been abducted during the attack.
“The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident,” the statement said, urging Nigerians to rely on verified information while continuing to pray for frontline troops.
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid tribute to the men who stood their ground under intense fire, saluting what he called their “uncommon bravery, resilience and sacrifice.”
He noted that the troops “have continued to operate in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict on behalf of our dear nation,” adding that their commitment “remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices being made by our gallant service men and women to keep Nigeria safe.”
The Army said it remains committed to securing all communities around the Sambisa axis and supporting operations to eradicate insurgent threats across the region.