The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, alongside several soldiers, after a fierce battle with Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
The confrontation reportedly took place on October 17 around the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government Area.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Major Appolonia Anele, the troops under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled an attempted attack by the insurgents but suffered heavy casualties.
“Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, on October 17, 2025, thwarted an attempted assault by Boko Haram terrorists around the Kashimri general area.
Unfortunately, the encounter came at a cost, as the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, and a few other gallant soldiers paid the supreme price,” the statement read.
Major Anele said the troops engaged the terrorists in intense combat, killing several of them and destroying multiple hideouts.
She explained that the troops’ gallantry prevented what could have been a major attack on civilian settlements and critical facilities in Bama and nearby communities.
“The troops’ bravery frustrated the terrorists’ plans to disrupt peace and socio-economic activities in the area. Some of the fleeing terrorists sustained gunshot wounds as our forces maintained operational dominance,” she said.
The Army spokesperson described the fallen personnel as heroes who sacrificed their lives for the unity and security of the nation.
“The Nigerian Army deeply mourns these courageous men. Their sacrifices embody the spirit of service and patriotism. We will continue to honour their memory as we intensify efforts to eradicate terrorism from our nation,” she added.
Major Anele also conveyed the condolences of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to the families of the deceased, noting that they died defending Nigeria with honour and courage.
“They were fathers, brothers, and sons who showed exceptional bravery in the face of danger,” she quoted the Army Chief as saying.
Oluyede reaffirmed the military’s determination to sustain ongoing operations against insurgents until lasting peace is achieved across the North-East and other parts of the country.
The Army further appealed to the public and media organisations to respect the privacy of the bereaved families and avoid sharing images of the deceased personnel until their next of kin have been duly informed.
