By Onyeanya Ebere Immaculata
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have repelled a coordinated attack by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), terrorists on the Naval Base at Lake Chad Fish Dam in Borno State, killing scores of insurgents.
The early morning assault occurred around 2 a.m. on Wednesday. According to a statement posted on the Nigerian Army’s official X (formerly Twitter), handle, the terrorists launched the attack in an attempt to destroy swamp bogeys recently procured by the Borno State Government to aid in clearing waterways around the Lake Chad region.
However, the soldiers stationed at the base mounted a fierce resistance, supported by reinforcements from nearby Baga.
The firefight reportedly lasted more than two hours, ultimately forcing the insurgents to retreat.
“In a well-coordinated joint land, maritime, and air operation, troops of Operation Hadin Kai neutralised scores of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists who attempted to infiltrate the Naval Base at Lake Chad Fish Dam during the early hours of today,” the statement read.
The Army added that the terrorists were repelled before they could access or destroy the swamp-clearing equipment. Improvised Explosive Device (IED), materials were also recovered at the scene.
Despite the successful defense, the Army confirmed that a limited breach occurred during the encounter, resulting in the destruction of an ambulance and two other vehicles. Some personnel sustained injuries, but the number was not disclosed.
The statement further noted that air component platforms were conducting follow-up operations to pursue the fleeing terrorists along the waterways and prevent regrouping.
This latest offensive underscores ongoing efforts by the Nigerian military to curb insurgent activities in the Lake Chad region and safeguard critical infrastructure.
