“They Died As Brave Heroes Defending Nigeria,” Says Military
The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of a Commanding Officer and several gallant soldiers during a fierce encounter with Boko Haram terrorists in Borno State, describing the fallen men as “brave heroes who paid the ultimate price for peace and unity.”
In a solemn statement released by the Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, the Army announced that the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, alongside a number of courageous troops, was killed in action on October 17, 2025, during a counter-terrorism operation in Kashimri, Bama Local Government Area.
> “These brave heroes fought gallantly to the end, defending our beloved nation against terror. Their legacies shall endure forever,” Lt-Col. Anele declared.
According to her, troops under the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, had earlier launched a decisive offensive that foiled a major Boko Haram attack, destroying several terrorist hideouts and thwarting plans to assault civilians and disrupt socio-economic activities in the region.
The operation, however, came at a heavy cost. Despite successfully neutralising multiple insurgents and inflicting serious casualties on the enemy, Lt-Col. Paiko and his men made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.
Lt-Col. Anele urged members of the public and media to exercise restraint by not circulating images of fallen soldiers, emphasizing the need to respect their dignity and protect the privacy of grieving families.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, extended his deepest condolences to the families of the departed heroes, describing them as “not just soldiers, but fathers, brothers, and sons who stood tall in the face of adversity.”
> “They took the last stand so that others may live. Their courage embodies the spirit of our military tradition — selflessness, discipline, and sacrifice,” the Army Chief said.
He further reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s unwavering commitment to eliminate terrorism across the nation, vowing that the blood of the fallen would not be in vain.
> “We will pursue every terrorist element until total peace and normalcy return to our dear nation,” Oluyede vowed.
As the nation mourns, tributes have poured in for Lt-Col. Paiko, whose leadership and bravery in battle have been described by colleagues as “legendary and inspiring.”
Their sacrifice, the Army noted, serves as a poignant reminder of the high price of freedom and the unyielding resolve of Nigeria’s armed forces to defend the sovereignty and unity of the country.
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