Tragedy Strikes as Armed Bandits Launch Deadly Attacks on Military Bases in Kaduna and Niger States

 

In a deeply disturbing incident that has once again highlighted the growing insecurity in Nigeria, several Nigerian soldiers were killed and others injured when a group of armed bandits launched coordinated assaults on military bases in Kaduna and Niger States. The violent attacks took place on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, and have left the nation mourning the loss of its gallant soldiers while raising critical concerns over national security, especially in the northern regions of the country.

Coordinated Attacks on Forward Operating Bases

According to an official statement released by the Nigerian Defence Headquarters, the attacks were launched on multiple forward operating bases (FOBs) located in Aungwan Turai in Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State and in Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger State. These bases are strategic locations where soldiers are stationed to monitor and contain insurgent and criminal activities in the region.

The Defence Headquarters described the assaults as a "three-pronged attack," meaning the assailants launched simultaneous offensives at different locations with the intention to overwhelm military personnel and destabilize the defense architecture in those areas.

“On 24 June 2025, forward operating bases in the general areas of Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga and Boka, Niger State, and Aungwan Turai, Chikun LGA in Kaduna State, were attacked by bandits in a 3-pronged attack,” the military said in a press release.

This attack is one of the most daring and coordinated assaults on Nigerian security forces in recent months. It underscores the increasing boldness of non-state armed groups who continue to wreak havoc across the country despite ongoing military efforts.

Military Response: Land and Air Troops Launch Counteroffensive

Despite the surprise nature of the attacks, the Nigerian military did not back down. Troops from both the land and air components quickly mobilized and responded to the bandit invasion. The Defence Headquarters confirmed that several counter-attacks were launched in the affected locations.

“In response, land and air component troops launched several counter-attacks that eliminated scores of bandits in the encounters. Sadly, some gallant warriors paid the supreme price in the day-long battles,” the statement said.

The use of both aerial and ground troops shows the seriousness with which the Nigerian Armed Forces are treating the security crisis. The Defence Headquarters did not specify the exact number of casualties on the side of the bandits, but the phrase “scores of bandits” suggests that dozens may have been neutralized during the counter-offensive.

Heavy Losses and Ongoing Medical Treatment for Wounded Soldiers

While the military was able to repel the attackers and cause significant damage to the bandit forces, it came at a great cost. Several soldiers lost their lives in the line of duty. These brave men are being remembered as heroes who gave their lives to protect their fellow citizens and the sovereignty of Nigeria.

In addition to those killed, the army confirmed that four soldiers sustained gunshot injuries and are currently undergoing medical treatment. The identities of the injured soldiers have not been made public, and the extent of their injuries has not been disclosed at this time.

This tragic development has sent shockwaves through the military community and has once again brought to the forefront the dangers faced daily by Nigerian security forces battling banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping across different parts of the country.

Search and Clearance Operations Underway

In the aftermath of the attacks, the military has intensified its operations in the surrounding areas. Troops have launched what it refers to as “clearance operations” aimed at flushing out the remaining bandits who may have escaped during the battles.

"The military stated that clearance efforts are being carried out in the neighbouring regions to find the individuals who escaped the scene."

These operations are crucial not only for tracking down fleeing assailants but also for ensuring that similar future attacks are prevented. The Defence Headquarters noted that the army remains fully committed to eradicating criminal elements from all affected regions and restoring peace and stability to the communities.

National Reactions: A Wake-Up Call on Insecurity in Nigeria

The violent attacks in Kaduna and Niger States have ignited widespread concern among Nigerians. Many have taken to social media and public forums to express their grief and outrage over the growing insecurity across the country. Several citizens have also called on the government to step up its efforts to equip and support the military, particularly in volatile areas where attacks by bandits and terrorists are frequent.

Security analysts have pointed out that these attacks highlight the urgent need for the Nigerian government to reassess its counterinsurgency strategy. The fact that such well-coordinated strikes could be carried out on multiple military installations is an indication that the attackers had access to detailed intelligence and possessed a level of military sophistication.

Why Are Kaduna and Niger States Frequent Targets?

Kaduna and Niger States have become hotspots for armed banditry and insurgency over the past few years. Their proximity to the North West and North Central conflict zones makes them highly vulnerable to attacks. In recent years, both states have recorded a high number of kidnappings, attacks on villages, and violent clashes between security forces and armed groups.

Chikun LGA in Kaduna, where one of the attacks took place, is particularly notorious for its history of insecurity. Numerous residents have been displaced due to repeated assaults by bandits. Similarly, the areas of Kwanar Dutse, Mairiga, and Boka in Niger State are known for harboring criminal elements who exploit the difficult terrain and lack of surveillance to carry out nefarious activities.

What This Means for National Security Going Forward

The June 24 attacks on military bases serve as a stark reminder that Nigeria’s war against banditry and terrorism is far from over. While the Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded many victories in recent months, including the capture and neutralization of top terrorist commanders, incidents like this show that the enemy remains determined and deadly.

The Defence Headquarters has reiterated its commitment to protecting Nigerians and eliminating all threats to national security. However, the government must also do more to address the root causes of banditry—such as poverty, unemployment, poor governance, and weak intelligence infrastructure.

Military experts have also called for increased investment in modern surveillance technology, improved coordination between military and local intelligence networks, and greater community engagement to help identify and root out informants working with bandit groups.

Conclusion: Honouring the Fallen, Strengthening the Fight

As Nigerians continue to mourn the loss of the brave soldiers who paid the ultimate price during the June 24 attacks, it is important for both the government and the people to recommit themselves to the fight against insecurity. The sacrifice made by these gallant men should not be in vain.

NaijaRush joins the rest of the nation in saluting the courage and patriotism of our fallen heroes. Their dedication to duty, even in the face of extreme danger, embodies the spirit of service that every Nigerian aspires to.

It is our hope that their deaths will strengthen the resolve of the Nigerian military and inspire urgent reforms to better equip and protect those on the front lines of this war against terror.