Suspected Boko Haram terrorists launched a deadly attack on a Nigerian Army base in Marte Local Government Area of Borno State in the early hours of Monday. The assault targeted the Forward Operation Base of the 153 Task Force Battalion around 3:00am, resulting in the deaths of an unspecified number of soldiers and the capture of several others.
Local and security sources confirmed that the troops were overpowered during the attack, with many soldiers reportedly fleeing towards Dikwa, where they regrouped at the 24 Task Force Brigade. The insurgents, believed to be linked to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), seized control of Marte, burned down armored tanks, and made away with arms and ammunition from the base.
Residents in Dikwa reported hearing heavy gunfire and seeing a Nigerian Air Force fighter jet hovering over the area during the attack. Despite the military’s efforts, the terrorists succeeded in dislodging the troops, and the full extent of casualties and missing personnel is still being determined.
This incident is part of a series of recent attacks on military formations in Borno and neighboring Yobe State, signaling a resurgence of jihadist activity in the region. Security analysts have linked the uptick in violence to evolving tactics by insurgent groups, including the use of armed drones and improvised explosive devices.
The renewed wave of attacks has prompted calls from local leaders and lawmakers for the federal government and security agencies to intensify efforts to equip and motivate the military. The ongoing insurgency in northeastern Nigeria has claimed tens of thousands of lives, displaced millions, and continues to pose a significant threat to national stability and security.
