Vice President Kashim Shettima has visited Maiduguri to condole with the Nigerian Army following a deadly attack on troops in Benisheikh.
The visit, made on behalf of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, comes after a violent assault that claimed the lives of several soldiers, including Oseni Braimah.
Shettima arrived in Maiduguri to express sympathy to both the military and the Borno State government.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, the visit reflects the Federal Government’s concern over the rising security challenges in the region.
During the visit, Shettima honoured the fallen troops and praised their sacrifice.
He said the soldiers died while protecting the nation. He also stressed that their courage highlights the high price of maintaining peace and security.
Furthermore, he assured the military of continued government support in the fight against insurgency.
Meanwhile, the attack occurred in Benisheikh, Borno State, during a midnight assault.
Suspected fighters from Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province reportedly launched coordinated strikes on military bases.
The attackers targeted multiple positions around 12:30 a.m. They later advanced into nearby civilian areas.
Surviving soldiers described the incident as one of the most intense assaults in recent months.
However, reports on the number of casualties have varied.
Some sources claimed that as many as 17 soldiers, including a brigade commander, were killed. These reports raised concerns about the scale of the attack.
In response, the military provided an official update.
The Headquarters of Operation Hadin Kai said only two officers and two soldiers died in the attack.
Lt.-Col. Sani Uba described higher casualty figures as false and misleading. He also clarified that the brigade commander’s vehicle did not fail but was temporarily immobilised during combat.
According to him, the situation reflected the intensity of the battle rather than any equipment failure.
Finally, Shettima reassured Nigerians that the government remains committed to tackling insecurity.
He stated that under President Tinubu, criminal elements will not find safe haven.
The visit highlights ongoing efforts to boost morale within the armed forces and reinforce the fight against insurgency.
