In a daring joint operation, Nigerian Army troops, backed by air support from the Nigerian Air Force, on Monday night, June 24, 2025, successfully thwarted a massive terrorist incursion into Bangi community, Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State.
Acting on credible intelligence, troops intercepted the movement of over 300 armed terrorists in the Kwanar Dutse Forest, as they attempted to transit under the cover of darkness toward Kwatankoro Forest — reportedly in a bid to either stage coordinated attacks on nearby communities or flee the intensified military operations in neighbouring Zamfara State.
The confrontation quickly escalated into a fierce three-hour gun duel, during which Nigerian Army troops held their ground with courage and precision. As the bandits began to retreat under sustained fire, the Nigerian Air Force launched coordinated airstrikes on their escape routes, delivering devastating precision bombardments on their hideouts.
Although the exact casualty figure on the terrorists’ side could not be confirmed, military sources reported multiple blood trails along the forest escape paths — a strong indication of heavy losses inflicted on the attackers. The military has since launched follow-up operations to track down surviving insurgents and assess the full impact of the mission.
Tragically, the operation also came at a cost: seventeen gallant Nigerian soldiers paid the ultimate price, while ten others sustained injuries during the heavy firefight. The wounded personnel have been successfully evacuated to military medical facilities and are reportedly in stable condition.
In a statement released by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of these heroic soldiers and extended his heartfelt condolences to their families. He assured that military medical teams have been mobilized to provide the best possible care for the wounded, and that the Nigerian Army is already engaging with the families of the fallen heroes to provide necessary support.
Lt. Gen. Oluyede reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to national security and the ongoing war against terrorism. “The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” he said. “We will continue, in collaboration with our sister services and other security agencies, to fight for every inch of our territory and protect every Nigerian life.”
The Army also called on citizens to remain vigilant and support the military’s counter-terrorism efforts by reporting suspicious movements and activities promptly.
The Nigerian military continues to show resolve in its mission to defend the country from those who threaten its peace and security. Monday’s successful operation serves as a clear message to terrorist elements that Nigeria’s sovereignty is not up for negotiation.