Nigeria continues to face a surge in violent assaults, mass abductions, and deadly ambushes carried out by armed groups such as bandits, Boko Haram, and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). While civilians remain the most affected, security personnel battling insurgency in the North East have suffered significant casualties.
In recent days, the nation was shaken by the killing of two soldiers and two members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), who were ambushed by ISWAP militants along the Damboa–Wajiroko road in Borno State while transporting military equipment. The attackers also carted away at least 17 military motorcycles.
Tragically, Brigadier General Musa Uba — initially declared missing — was later confirmed dead. Reports indicate that he escaped the first ambush and communicated with military authorities while attempting to return to base, but was eventually captured and killed by ISWAP fighters. His death has once again raised concerns about the ability of jihadist factions to target high-ranking officers despite ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
General Uba is now the second most senior Nigerian officer to be killed by insurgents since 2021.
This report highlights six senior Nigerian military officers who have died in the line of duty while fighting Boko Haram and ISWAP:
1. Lieutenant Colonel Muhammad Abu Ali
Renowned for his bravery, Lt. Col. Abu Ali commanded the 272 Task Force Battalion and played a critical role in recapturing Baga in 2015. He was killed in November 2016 during a Boko Haram attack on the 119 Battalion in Mallam Fatori.
2. Lieutenant Colonel Ibrahim Sakaba
Commander of the 157 Task Force Battalion in Metele, Lt. Col. Sakaba died in November 2018 when insurgents overran his base in Borno State.
3. Colonel Dahiru Chiroma Bako
In September 2020, Colonel Bako was ambushed near Wajiroko and later died from his injuries. He led the 25 Task Force Operation Lafiya Dole. Governor Babagana Zulum praised him as a gallant soldier who consistently defended Damboa.
4. Brigadier General Dzarma Zirkusu
The most senior officer killed in 2021, General Zirkusu died in an ISWAP ambush in Askira Uba alongside three soldiers. President Buhari described him as a courageous officer whose legacy remains immortal.
5. Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko
Lt. Col. Paiko was killed in October 2025 during a Boko Haram attack in Borno. As commander of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, he led successful operations that dismantled insurgent camps around Bama before his death.
6. Brigadier General Musa Uba
Killed in November 2025, General Uba served as Commander of the 25 Brigade. A member of the 48 Regular Course at the NDA, he was regarded as a promising senior officer due for promotion to Major General.
These deaths underscore the enormous risks faced by Nigerian troops on the front lines of the insurgency. Though their loss is deeply painful, their service reflects steadfast courage and a commitment to securing the country. Honouring their sacrifices reinforces the need for continued efforts to strengthen protection for military personnel, including senior officers.
