The Nigerian Army, under the banner of Operation Hadin Kai, successfully repelled coordinated attacks by Boko Haram/ISWAP insurgents in the New Marte and Kumshe areas of Borno State. The early morning assaults on May 27, 2025, targeted a military position in New Marte and the Forward Operating Base in Kumshe. The swift and decisive response of the ground troops, supported by the air component, resulted in the neutralization of numerous insurgents and the disruption of their planned incursions. While victory was achieved, the confrontations tragically claimed the lives of two soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of their nation.
The attack on New Marte began with the insurgents attempting to infiltrate the military position. They were met with a barrage of heavy gunfire from the ground troops, who were immediately bolstered by the air component. ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) provided by the air assets allowed for precise targeting of fleeing insurgents, resulting in significant casualties. The combined arms approach, demonstrating the enhanced synergy between ground and air forces, proved decisive in repelling the attack and preventing the insurgents from gaining a foothold.
Simultaneously, another attack was launched on the Forward Operating Base at Kumshe. This assault, too, was met with fierce resistance from the stationed troops. While the specific details of this engagement are less elaborated, the statement confirms that the attack was successfully thwarted. The combined efforts in both New Marte and Kumshe underscored the renewed commitment to joint operations and the strengthened resolve to combat terrorism in the region. The successful defense of both locations prevented the insurgents from achieving their strategic objectives and dealt a significant blow to their operational capabilities.
The aftermath of the operations revealed the extent of the damage inflicted upon the insurgents. A Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) SUV, abandoned by the fleeing terrorists, was recovered by the troops. Numerous motorcycles, commonly used by the insurgents for transportation and rapid maneuverability, were also destroyed. Further evidence of the heavy casualties suffered by the insurgents included the discovery of their lifeless bodies and blood trails along their withdrawal routes. This indicated that the combined firepower of the ground troops and the air component had inflicted significant losses on the enemy.
The successful repulsion of these attacks highlights the critical role of inter-service cooperation and the effectiveness of the combined arms approach. The swift mobilization of reinforcements from the 24 Task Force Brigade Garrison and the 134 Special Forces Battalion, along with the seamless integration of air support, played a crucial role in overwhelming the insurgents. The enhanced coordination between ground and air forces, providing real-time intelligence and precise fire support, proved instrumental in achieving a decisive victory. This operational synergy is a testament to the ongoing efforts to improve interoperability and enhance the effectiveness of counter-terrorism operations.
The Nigerian Army, speaking through Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, emphasized the determination of the troops to sustain the momentum against terrorism. The operations in New Marte and Kumshe are viewed as significant victories in the ongoing fight against Boko Haram/ISWAP. The army reiterated its commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement and restoring peace and stability to the North-East region. The ultimate goal is to create a secure environment that allows for the resumption and flourishing of socio-economic activities, enabling the region to recover and rebuild. The sacrifices made by the two soldiers underscore the dedication and commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to achieving lasting peace in the region. Their bravery serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against terrorism and the importance of continued support for the military’s efforts. The army remains resolute in its mission to defeat terrorism and create a secure future for the people of the North-East.
The incident underscores the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram/ISWAP in the region, despite ongoing military operations. The attacks in New Marte and Kumshe serve as a reminder of the complex and evolving nature of the insurgency, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and adaptive strategies. The recovery of a VBIED further emphasizes the insurgents’ capacity for sophisticated attacks and their willingness to employ deadly tactics. The events of May 27, 2025, while demonstrating the military’s capacity to effectively respond to such threats, also underscore the ongoing challenges in achieving lasting peace and stability in the North-East. The commitment to denying terrorists freedom of movement and fostering socio-economic development remains central to the overall strategy.
