DHQ confirms killing of brigadier-general in Borno terrorist attack

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed the death of Oseni Braimah, a brigadier-general of the 29 brigade, who was killed in Benisheikh, Kaga LGA of Borno State, following a terrorist attack on Thursday morning. Michael Onoja, director of defence media operations, said in a statement on Friday that Braimah was killed alongside another officer and two soldiers while “making the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.” “On 9 April 2026, troops deployed in Benisheikh in Kaga LGA of Borno State came under terrorists’ attack. Troops engaged the terrorists and held their ground. Regrettably, some personnel paid the supreme price; including the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General OO Braimah and 3 other Armed Forces personnel,” the statement reads. Onoja described Braimah as one “whose conspicuous bravery, personal leadership under fire, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his troops reflect the highest ideals and traditions of the Nigerian military.” “The AFN mourns deeply with the families, loved ones, and colleagues of these fallen heroes. Their courage will forever be etched in the history of the AFN,” he added. “To the families of the fallen, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede and the entire AFN stand with you in this moment of deep sorrow. “Your loved ones were not ordinary citizens; they were extraordinary Nigerians who chose to stand between danger and the rest of the nation. “Nigerians are further assured that the loss of these heroes will not diminish but rather fortify the resolve of the Armed Forces. “Operations across all theatres will continue with even greater determination as a lasting tribute to the memory of those who have fallen.” The Nigerian Army had earlier dismissed what it described as “exaggerated reports” claiming that a brigade commander was killed during a terrorist attack in Benisheikh. The army, in a statement issued on Friday by Sani Uba, media information officer at the headquarters joint task force (north east), Operation HADIN KAI, said reports alleging that 17 soldiers, including a brigade commander, died in the incident were inaccurate. Uba did not disclose the identities of the officers and soldiers killed in the attack but said the information that 17 personnel died is “entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility.”

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