By Kazeem Ugbodaga
In a dramatic show of military might and resilience, Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled a coordinated night attack by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the embattled town of New Marte, Borno State.
The intense firefight, which erupted at precisely 1:35 a.m. Tuesday morning, saw a combination of ground forces and aerial support engage the insurgents in a fierce exchange that lasted several hours.
Despite the surprise element of the ambush, Nigerian forces stood their ground in what military insiders have described as “a grueling and courageous pushback.”
Tragically, two brave soldiers lost their lives during the operation — a stark reminder of the high cost of Nigeria’s war against terrorism.
According to a brief but potent statement released by the Nigerian Army via its official X (formerly Twitter) handle: “In a joint land and air operation, troops of Operation Hadin Kai defeated a BH/ISWAP night attack on New Marte, Borno State in a grueling battle that commenced at 1:35am this morning.
“Sadly two soldiers paid the supreme price while a number of the terrorists were neutralized. Troops are currently in pursuit of the fleeing terrorists. More updates later,” the army said.
Security sources confirm that several terrorists were neutralised, while others fled the scene under heavy fire, now being relentlessly pursued by Nigerian forces across the Lake Chad axis.
Military analysts say the insurgents’ choice of a night-time strike may indicate desperation or a renewed bid to reclaim strategic territories lost in recent months.
However, the swift and forceful response from troops demonstrates continued military superiority and preparedness.
The attack on New Marte is part of a series of recent escalations by insurgents in the North-East, yet it also underscores the Army’s intensified counter-offensives, bolstered by better intelligence, firepower, and coordination.
The names of the fallen soldiers are being withheld until their families are notified.
Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has assured residents of Borno and surrounding regions of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and rooting out terrorist elements.
