Deadly Attack in Bangi, Mariga LGA
Seventeen soldiers of the Nigerian Army have been confirmed dead and ten others injured following a terrorist ambush on a military base in Bangi, located in Mariga Local Government Area of Niger State. The attack occurred at dawn on June 24, 2025, when heavily armed terrorists overran the base after a fierce gun battle.
Joint Military Response and Counteroffensive
According to Army spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Nigerian Army, in a coordinated operation with the Nigerian Air Force, acted swiftly to repel the attempted incursion into the Bangi community. Based on credible intelligence, troops engaged approximately 300 armed bandits in Kwanar Dutse Forest, who were believed to be moving towards Kwatankoro Forest, either to evade pressure from military operations in Zamfara State or to plan further attacks on nearby communities.
Intense Firefight and Airstrikes
Anele noted that the confrontation lasted over three hours, during which ground troops engaged the terrorists in a heavy firefight. Following the engagement, the Nigerian Air Force conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ retreat routes. These strikes inflicted severe damage on the enemy, although the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed. However, multiple blood trails along the escape paths indicate substantial losses among the attackers.
Casualties and Medical Response
Seventeen soldiers were killed in the line of duty during the encounter, while ten others sustained injuries. The injured personnel have since been evacuated to a military medical facility and are reportedly in stable condition.
Condolences and Commitment from the Army
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Oluwafemi Oluyede, extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. He praised their courage and sacrifice in defense of Nigeria and directed that the best medical care be provided to the injured. Relevant army departments have also been tasked with supporting the families of the deceased heroes.
Reaffirmation of Military Resolve
The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of citizens across the country. “The sanctity of our freedom shall not be mortgaged,” Anele stated, assuring the public that the military, in collaboration with the Navy, Air Force, other security agencies, and Nigerian citizens, remains determined to eliminate terrorism, banditry, and all forms of criminality.
Call for Public Support
The army called on members of the public to support ongoing counter-terrorism operations by providing timely and actionable information to security agencies.
