Six Nigerian Army personnel, including two officers and four soldiers, have lost their lives during an ambush by terrorists in Niger State.
The incident occurred as troops from the 1 Division Nigerian Army engaged in a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area.
According to a statement from the Nigerian Army Headquarters signed by Maj.-Gen. Onyema Nwachukwu, Director of Army Public Relations, the troops fell into an ambush set by terrorists, leading to a fierce firefight.
Despite their bravery and efforts to fight back, six personnel were tragically killed in action.
Part of the statement read: , “Troops of 1 Division Nigerian Army deployed at Allawa and Erena, while on a fighting patrol to Karaga Village in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State had an encounter in an ambush staged by terrorists on 19 April 2024.
“Troops gallantly fought through the ambush and eliminated several of the terrorists as well as captured some of their equipment.
“Sadly, the troops suffered a temporary setback as six personnel comprising two officers and four soldiers paid the supreme price.
“We urge the general public, particularly the good people of Niger and contiguous states, to continue to avail the Nigerian Army and other security agencies with actionable and timely information to enhance the operations of the troops.”
The statement said the General Officer Commanding 1 Division and Commander, Operation Whirl Punch, Maj.-Gen. Landers Saraso, on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja sympathised with the families of the deceased personnel and promised them that the troops would avenge the unfortunate setback.
He said the troops were on the trail of some of the terrorists who survived and fled after the encounter.
The Nigerian Army headquarters further stated that in line with customs and traditions, the Nigerian Army had contacted the next of kin of the fallen heroes, while burial had been conducted for the deceased Muslim personnel with the consent and approval of their family members.
It said the Chief of Army Staff was represented at the burial, which took place at Minna Military Cantonment Cemetery, by Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), Maj.-Gen. Kelvin Aligbe.
