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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed condolences to the Nigerian Army and the families of the six soldiers who lost their lives in a recent attack on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State. The devastating attack, carried out by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists, has reignited the President’s resolve to intensify military efforts against insurgency and banditry.
The Attack on Damboa Base
On Saturday, ISWAP terrorists launched a deadly assault on the army base, killing six soldiers and causing significant damage. The incident highlights the persistent threat posed by terrorist groups in Nigeria’s Northeast region.
Also Read : ISWAP Attack in Borno: Six Soldiers Killed in Military Base Raid
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Key Details of the Attack:
- Location: Forward Operating Base (FOB), Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State.
- Casualties: Six soldiers killed, several others injured.
- Retaliatory Actions: The Nigerian Armed Forces, particularly the air component, launched swift retaliatory strikes, neutralizing several terrorists and destroying their assets.
President Tinubu’s Response
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu expressed his sympathy for the fallen heroes and commended the military for their decisive response. He emphasized the importance of proactive measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key Statements from President Tinubu:
- Condolences and Gratitude:
“The sacrifice of these brave soldiers in defending our nation will forever be honored and remembered,” said Tinubu.
He praised the military’s dedication and assured them of the nation’s unwavering support. - Investigation into the Attack:
Tinubu ordered a thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding the attack, ensuring that valuable lessons are learned to prevent future occurrences. - Retaliatory Strikes:
The President lauded the air component of the Armed Forces for their swift and effective counterattacks, which neutralized numerous terrorists attempting to flee. - Take the War to Bandits’ Camps:
Tinubu directed the military to proactively target terrorist and bandit camps, particularly in the Northwest, where criminal activities continue to endanger the lives of innocent Nigerians.
Military Action: A Step Toward Peace
The President’s directive underscores the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and restoring peace across the nation. He commended the Armed Forces for their readiness and capability to confront these threats, urging them to sustain their momentum.
Recent Military Achievements:
- Neutralization of ISWAP Fighters: The air raids following the attack resulted in the significant elimination of ISWAP combatants.
- Destruction of Assets: Military operations destroyed critical equipment and logistics used by the terrorists.
President’s Appeal to Nigerians:
Tinubu called on Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts to restore peace and security. “This is a collective fight, and together, we can overcome these challenges to pave the way for a peaceful future,” he stated.
The Way Forward: Proactive Military Strategy
President Tinubu’s call to take the war to the camps of bandits and terrorists reflects a proactive approach to tackling insecurity. The focus will be on identifying and dismantling insurgent strongholds before they can regroup and launch further attacks.
| Action Plan | Objective |
|---|---|
| Intensify Intelligence Gathering | Detect and prevent planned attacks. |
| Proactive Air and Ground Strikes | Target insurgent camps and logistics hubs. |
| Strengthen Community Collaboration | Foster cooperation between local communities and security forces. |
The attack on the Damboa army base serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria. However, President Tinubu’s response underscores a renewed commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety of all Nigerians.
With directives to take the fight to the terrorists’ camps and sustained support for the Armed Forces, there is hope for a more secure and peaceful Nigeria. The nation stands united in honoring the sacrifices of its military heroes and supporting efforts to restore stability.
