…some have warned that the increasing frequency of attacks on military installations suggests deeper systemic challenges.
BORNO, NIGERIA- The iNews Times| Anxiety is mounting across Nigeria following a worsening security situation marked by increasing attacks on military personnel and formations, particularly in the northern region.
The latest concern comes days after terrorists attacked a military base in Borno State, killing a senior officer, as fresh reports confirm the death of another commanding officer in a separate incident in Monguno.
In a statement issued by Operation HADIN KAI, the Army disclosed that the officer, alongside six soldiers, lost their lives after encountering an improvised explosive device during a response to a terrorist attack on their location.
According to the statement signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, troops engaged the attackers in a gun battle and successfully repelled them, maintaining control of the area. However, the commanding officer was killed while advancing to assess the situation, highlighting what the Army described as an act of courage and leadership.
The development has triggered widespread outrage, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the growing boldness of terrorist groups, who now appear to directly target military bases.
Security concerns have also drawn international attention, with the United States Department of State issuing a travel advisory warning of a deteriorating security environment. The advisory placed several Nigerian states under its highest risk category and authorised the voluntary departure of non-essential personnel from its Abuja embassy.
Despite this, the Federal Government downplayed the warning, insisting that the situation does not reflect a general breakdown of law and order across the country.
Meanwhile, controversy has also followed a recent airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force in Borno State, which reportedly resulted in civilian casualties. While the military described the operation as a targeted strike against terrorist locations, it did not confirm reports that civilians were affected.
Political reactions have also emerged, with Senate President Godswill Akpabio attributing the rising insecurity to political tensions ahead of the 2027 general elections, a claim that has further fueled public debate.
Security experts and civil society voices have, however, called for urgent and decisive measures. Some have warned that the increasing frequency of attacks on military installations suggests deeper systemic challenges, including possible intelligence leaks and operational lapses.
A Lagos-based human rights lawyer, James Agbaje, described the situation as alarming, arguing that the growing audacity of terrorist groups signals the need for serious reassessment of Nigeria’s security strategy, including the possibility of seeking foreign military assistance.
Similarly, security analyst Gilbert Olugbenga raised concerns about alleged infiltration within the armed forces, stressing that effective counterterrorism efforts must prioritise intelligence and internal reforms.
As the situation unfolds, many Nigerians continue to urge the government to take decisive steps to restore security and uphold its primary responsibility of protecting lives and property.
