Insurgents raid Nigerian base in Borno, kill 8 soldiers

Insurgents attacked a Nigerian Army base in Borno State early Friday, killing multiple soldiers and allied fighters in a raid that exploited heavy rainfall and poor visibility. The assault targeted a forward operating base in the Mandaragirau area under Biu Local Government, according to an official military statement.

The attack began at approximately 3:00 a.m., with the insurgents attempting to breach the base during a heavy rainstorm. Troops responded with a counteroffensive, which officials said contained the assault and inflicted casualties on the attackers. In the ensuing firefight, five soldiers and three members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, a local militia that assists the military, were killed. Wounded personnel were airlifted for medical care and are reported to be in stable condition.

A military spokesman stated that troops remain in firm control of the base and that exploitation operations are ongoing. The statement described the failed attack as a sign of the growing desperation of terrorist elements who continue to suffer losses under sustained military pressure. It also noted that all necessary measures, including the deployment of additional troops, are...