The Nigerian Defence Headquarters has confirmed the loss of at least 22 soldiers and over 70 insurgents in an ongoing counter-terrorism operation in the “Timbuktu Triangle,” located in Borno State, Northern Nigeria.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, revealed in a statement on Sunday that the clashes occurred during Operation Hadin Kai, a military offensive aimed at dismantling terrorist enclaves in the strategic region.
The operation, which commenced on January 16, 2025, was conducted across three axes.
Among the neutralized insurgents were three senior commanders: Talha, commander of the terrorist special forces; Mallam Umar, commander of operations; and Abu Yazeed, brigade commander.
Major General Buba explained that the insurgents employed lethal tactics, including improvised explosive devices (IEDs), suicide bombers, and drones, to slow the military’s advance. He urged the media to refrain from publishing the names of the fallen soldiers until their families are notified.