Boko Haram Attacks Two Military Bases in Borno, Leaving Many Dead

Suspected Boko Haram militants carried out coordinated attacks on two military formations in Borno State, targeting an army base in Wajirko, Damboa Local Government Area, and another military post in Wulgo village, Gamboru Ngala Local Government Area. The assaults, which took place on Monday, March 24, 2025, resulted in casualties, with at least two soldiers feared dead and several others injured.

According to sources, the newly appointed Brigade Commander of ‘Operation Hadin Kai’ in Damboa was among those injured after stepping on Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) and landmines planted along the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu road by the insurgents. His name has not been disclosed.

Attacks Threaten Security Efforts in Borno

The latest ambush comes at a critical time when authorities were preparing to reopen the 185 km Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu road, which has remained closed for years due to persistent terrorist threats. The insurgents launched simultaneous attacks on the Wajirko and Wulgo military posts, overwhelming security forces in the area. While official reports on casualties remain unconfirmed, sources suggest that some Boko Haram fighters were also neutralized in the clashes. For more details, you can read the full report on Vanguard’s website.

Strategic Importance of Wulgo Army Formation

The Wulgo military base, a joint operational post for Nigerian and Cameroonian forces, is strategically located near the international border with Cameroon. The location plays a crucial role in regional security efforts against terrorism. The attacks on this formation highlight the growing threat of cross-border militant activities and the need for stronger international collaboration in combating insurgency.

Senator Ndume Raises Alarm Over Escalating Violence

Following the renewed wave of attacks, Senator Mohammed Ali Ndume (APC – Borno South) expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in Southern Borno. He criticized the federal government and security forces for their inability to curb the ongoing insurgency.

“It is terrible, the renewed Boko Haram attacks in Borno, especially in the Southern Borno Senatorial District. Many communities, including Gwoza, Askira-Uba, Chibok, Damboa, Biu, and Hawul, have suffered relentless attacks, destruction, and looting, with little resistance from our security forces,” Ndume stated in an interview in Maiduguri.

He acknowledged the efforts of the military and other security agencies but urged the federal government to take a more aggressive approach. “The government must wake up and address the root cause of this insurgency by deploying advanced technological warfare, including drones and surveillance systems, to put an end to these attacks,” he added.

Call for Strengthening Nigeria’s Military Response

Ndume emphasized the urgent need for better training, equipment, and motivation for the Nigerian military. He called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration to implement the “TEAM strategy”—Train, Equip, Arm, and Motivate—to strengthen security forces against the persistent threats of terrorism, kidnapping, and banditry across the North East and other parts of the country.

He also raised concerns over the rising cases of abductions along the Maiduguri-Damaturu-Buni Yadi-Biu road, urging the government to secure the release of kidnapped victims. Among those still held captive is Professor Abubakar El-Jummah, who was recently abducted along with others.

Also read: Manhunt Underway for Suspect in Edo After Pregnant Fiancée & Daughter Killed Days Before Wedding

Security Challenges in Borno and the Impact on Locals

The intensified Boko Haram attacks have made it increasingly difficult to reopen critical transportation routes like the Maiduguri-Damboa-Biu road, forcing residents and travelers to seek alternative, often more dangerous, routes. The worsening security situation has also led to economic disruptions, displacement of communities, and increased hardship for residents in Southern Borno.

With the Nigerian military and security forces under pressure, stakeholders continue to call for enhanced counterterrorism efforts, increased intelligence gathering, and greater international collaboration to curb the Boko Haram insurgency and restore stability in the region.