The Nigerian Army has confirmed the loss of 17 gallant soldiers and injuries to 10 others following a fierce confrontation with approximately 300 armed bandits in Niger State on June 24, 2025.
According to a statement released by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the incident occurred during a joint military operation involving ground troops and the Nigerian Air Force. The operation was launched based on credible intelligence indicating that a large group of terrorists was attempting a night-time movement through Kwanar Dutse Forest toward Kwatankoro Forest, likely in preparation for coordinated attacks on nearby communities or to evade ongoing military pressure in Zamfara State.
Troops engaged the bandits in a prolonged firefight lasting over three hours. The Nigerian Air Force subsequently executed precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ withdrawal routes, delivering heavy bombardments on identified enemy positions. While the exact number of enemy casualties remains unconfirmed, multiple blood trails suggest significant losses among the attackers.
“The Nigerian Army deeply regrets the loss of 17 brave and gallant soldiers who paid the supreme price in defense of our nation,” said Lt. Col. Anele. “Ten others sustained varying degrees of injury and are currently receiving treatment at a military medical facility. Their condition is stable.”
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, has extended heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen heroes and directed that the best possible care be provided to the wounded. He also tasked relevant departments to engage with the affected families and ensure they receive full support during this difficult time.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians and called on the public to continue supporting counter-terrorism efforts by providing timely and actionable intelligence.
“The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” the statement emphasized. “Together with the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force, other security agencies, and the resilient people of Nigeria, we will continue to fight until terrorism and banditry are eradicated from our land.”