Former Borno Governor Maina Collapses During Burial of 12 Slain Soldiers in Maiduguri

By Tgnews Reporter

A solemn burial ceremony for 12 Nigerian Army personnel killed in ongoing counter-insurgency operations in Borno State took a dramatic turn on Thursday, March 12, 2026, when former Governor Maina Maaji Lawan collapsed amid the proceedings.

The fallen heroes comprising three commanding officers (Lieutenant Colonels) and nine other ranks were laid to rest with full military honours between 10:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m. at the Maimalari Military Cantonment Cemetery in Maiduguri.

The ceremony was conducted under tight security, with limited media access to maintain order and respect the families’ grief.

The burials followed recent fierce clashes with insurgents, including attacks attributed to Boko Haram and ISWAP factions in areas such as Kukawa and other forward operating bases. These incidents have highlighted the persistent security challenges in the North-East, despite sustained military efforts under Operation Hadin Kai.

Eyewitnesses and reports from the event described the atmosphere as deeply emotional. Former Borno State Governor Maina Maaji Lawan, visibly moved by the loss of the gallant officers and men, suddenly collapsed during the burial procession.

Quick intervention by those present including the provision of water to break his fastnhelped him regain consciousness. He was reported to be stable afterward, though the incident underscored the profound personal toll the insurgency continues to exact on leaders and communities alike.

The ceremony was attended by top military brass, including the Commander of Sector 3 and other senior officers from the Theatre Command. Representatives of the Borno State Government, led by Secretary to the State Government Hon. Bukar Tijjani and Commissioner for Local Government Sugum Maimele, were also present to offer condolences.

In a gesture of support, the Borno State Government announced financial assistance to the bereaved families: N5 million each to the families of the three Lieutenant Colonels, and N1 million each to the families of the other ranks.

The burials adhered to religious rites—nine according to Islamic traditions and three according to Christian rites—reflecting the diverse composition of the fallen troops.

The Nigerian Army has reiterated its commitment to the fight against terrorism, paying tribute to the deceased as heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation.

Authorities have not released further details on the specific operations leading to the deaths, amid ongoing efforts to neutralize insurgent threats and secure communities.

This latest burial comes against a backdrop of renewed insurgent activities in Borno, with the Senate recently mourning similar losses and calling for intensified operations.

The collapse of the former governor has drawn sympathy from across the state, serving as a poignant reminder of the human cost of the prolonged conflict.

The Nigerian military and Borno State authorities continue to urge public support and vigilance as efforts persist to restore lasting peace to the region.