By Our Correspondent
National News – A senior Nigerian military officer, Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, has been killed in a deadly terrorist assault on a military base in northeastern Nigeria, highlighting the persistent security crisis in the region.
The attack occurred overnight in Benisheikh, a town about 75 kilometres from Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State.
According to local officials and intelligence sources, at least 18 soldiers were killed, while military vehicles and infrastructure were destroyed during the raid.
The assault is believed to be linked to extremist groups such as Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province, both of which have been active in the region since the insurgency began in 2009.
Officials say the attackers overran the military base, inflicted heavy casualties, and retreated after causing extensive damage.
This incident marks the second killing of a high-ranking Nigerian military officer within five months, following the death of Brigadier General Musa Uba in November.
The recurring loss of senior officers underscores the intensity and evolving nature of the insurgency in northeastern Nigeria.
Beyond Borno State, security concerns are spreading. Reports indicate a surge in violent attacks across northwestern states, including Kebbi, where armed groups linked to extremist networks have targeted rural communities.
In recent days, dozens of civilians have reportedly been killed in coordinated assaults on villages, raising fears of a broader regional escalation.
International attention has also intensified, with the United States issuing a security advisory citing worsening conditions.
Analysts warn that the expansion of militant activities from the Sahel region into Nigeria’s interior could further destabilise affected areas.
The Nigerian military has yet to release an official statement on the Benisheikh attack.
However, the incident reinforces concerns about rising terrorist violence, the resilience of insurgent groups, and the ongoing challenges faced by security forces in restoring stability.
