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By Oscar Okhifo
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede has visited the Nigerian Army troops in Niger State following a bloody encounter with terrorists that claimed the lives of 17 soldiers and left 10 others wounded.
The visit comes in the aftermath of a fierce gun battle that took place in the Kwanar Dutse Forest near Bangi community in Mariga Local Government Area.
According to military authorities, the troops were acting on credible intelligence when they engaged a large group of over 300 armed terrorists on Monday night, June 24.
The encounter, which lasted more than three hours, saw coordinated efforts between the Army and the Nigerian Air Force, with precision airstrikes targeting the terrorists as they attempted to retreat.
Multiple blood trails at the scene suggested heavy casualties on the side of the insurgents, although the military did not release an official number.
In a statement issued by Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army confirmed the death of 17 personnel and dispelled earlier reports that placed the figure at 20. The injured soldiers, she added, are receiving treatment and are in stable condition.
During his visit, General Oluyede offered condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and commended the bravery and sacrifice of the troops. He directed that the injured be given the best possible medical care and promised that the military would ensure robust support for the families of the deceased.
“The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its mission to protect lives and property. We will continue to intensify our operations to rid this region of all criminal elements,” the COAS stated.
Oluyede’s visit was also aimed at boosting troop morale and providing strategic direction amid ongoing counterterrorism efforts across Northern Nigeria. He assured the troops that the Army’s leadership stands fully behind them in their fight to secure the country from insurgent threats.
The Army reiterated its commitment to conducting intelligence-led operations and vowed to maintain pressure on terrorist cells operating in forested areas around Niger State and beyond.