By Emmanuel Kwada
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed profound sadness over the deaths of gallant soldiers of the 29 Task Force Brigade, Operation HADIN KAI, who were killed in a coordinated terrorist assault on their camp in Benisheikh, Borno State, early Thursday morning.
In a strongly-worded statement issued from the State House, the President described the fallen troops as “unforgettable heroes” who paid the ultimate price defending the nation, and called on all Nigerians and the media to rally solidly behind the Armed Forces in the ongoing fight against insurgency and banditry.
The Defence Headquarters confirmed the attack, which occurred as the troops were conducting sustained land and air offensives against Boko Haram elements in the area.
President Tinubu praised the courage of the soldiers, noting that they fought valiantly to repel the terrorists and prevent them from overrunning communities under their protection.
While mourning the loss, the President urged the military high command and troops on the frontline not to be discouraged, describing the insurgents’ counter-attack as “a sign of desperation” in the face of relentless military pressure.
“From the reports I have received, our armed forces have been conducting sustained, intense land and air offensives against the insurgents, neutralising many of their fighters and commanders,” President Tinubu said.
He added: “The government will never forget their sacrifices. Their sacrifices will not be in vain. Because of the courage and dedication of our troops on the frontline, our resolve to defeat terrorism and all forms of violence across Nigeria is stronger than ever.”
The President specifically extended condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers, led by Brigadier-General Oseni Omoh Braimah, assuring them that the nation stands with them in this moment of grief.
He further pledged that the Federal Government will continue to equip the military adequately and ensure the welfare of all personnel risking their lives for Nigeria’s safety.
In a direct appeal to the public and the media, President Tinubu warned against any celebration or condoning of attacks on troops.
“These soldiers are our heroes; unforgettable and irreplaceable,” he declared. “I urge Nigerians and the media to continue to support our Military in their relentless battle against insurgency and banditry. We should desist from celebrating or condoning the attacks against our troops.”
The President also conveyed condolences to the government and people of Borno State, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to work closely with the state to achieve total victory and lasting peace in the North-East.
The statement was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
The attack in Benisheikh comes at a time when the military has intensified operations against remaining terrorist enclaves, recording significant successes in recent weeks.
Military sources say the troops had been on the offensive, dismantling several insurgent camps before the desperate reprisal attack.
President Tinubu’s message is being viewed as a clear morale booster for the Armed Forces and a call for national unity behind the men and women in uniform at this critical phase of the counter-insurgency campaign.
As Nigerians wake up to the sad news, the President’s words have resonated strongly: the fallen soldiers died as heroes, and the nation’s support for its military must remain unwavering.
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