Militants Kill 16 in Coordinated Attacks on Nigerian Army Bases
IDUG, Nigeria — Suspected Islamist militants launched coordinated attacks on two Nigerian military installations in northeastern Borno State, killing at least 16 people, including soldiers, and leaving several others injured. The assaults, carried out by Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), occurred on the evening of March 25, 2025, marking a significant escalation in the decade-long insurgency in the region.
The Attacks
- Wajiroko Army Base:
- Time and Location: The militants struck the Wajiroko Forward Operation Base (FOB) around 9:00 PM GMT, setting military equipment ablaze.
- Casualties: At least four soldiers were killed, including the brigade commander, Brigadier General U.F Abubakar, who was leading reinforcement efforts. Several others were injured.
- Reinforcement Efforts: Air force fighter jets were deployed to counter the attack, reportedly killing many ISWAP fighters. However, it remains unclear whether the army has regained full control of the base.
- Wulgo Military Outpost:
- Time and Location: Simultaneously, militants in light tactical vehicles attacked an outpost in Wulgo, near the Cameroon border, around midnight.
- Casualties: Twelve soldiers were killed, and a dozen others were injured. The militants also looted a significant stockpile of weapons.
Tactics and Aftermath
The attackers reportedly used drones to initiate the assaults before launching ground offensives. Drone footage and social media videos showed bloodied bodies, charred patrol vehicles, and damaged buildings, though these remain unverified.
Makinta Modu, a member of a local militia assisting the Nigerian army, confirmed that the militants overran the Wajiroko base. He stated:
“Air force fighter jets arrived for support and eliminated many of the ISWAP fighters who had captured the military base.”
Context: Escalating Insurgency
Boko Haram and ISWAP have intensified attacks on military and civilian targets in Borno State since the beginning of 2025, despite suffering significant losses from military offensives and internal strife. The insurgency, which began in 2009, has displaced tens of thousands and claimed countless lives.
Reactions
- Local Militia: Members of local militias assisting the army expressed frustration over the inability to repel the attacks.
- Military Silence: The Nigerian army has yet to issue an official statement on the incidents.
- Cameroon’s Confirmation: Cameroon’s Defence Ministry confirmed the Wulgo attack but did not provide detailed casualty figures.
Implications
The attacks underscore the persistent threat posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP in Nigeria’s northeast, despite ongoing military operations. The loss of strategic bases and weaponry could embolden the militants, complicating efforts to restore stability in the region.
