The Nigerian Army has confirmed the death of the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, alongside several soldiers, following a fierce encounter with Boko Haram insurgents in the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Major Appolonia Anele, troops under Operation Hadin Kai successfully repelled a planned terrorist attack but suffered heavy casualties in the process.
“Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade, on October 17, 2025, thwarted an attempted assault by Boko Haram terrorists around the Kashimri general area. Unfortunately, the encounter came at a cost, as the Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, and a few other gallant soldiers paid the supreme price,” the statement read.
Major Anele explained that the troops engaged the insurgents in intense combat, neutralising several fighters and destroying multiple terrorist hideouts in the region. She said the operation averted what could have been a devastating attack on civilians and key infrastructure.
“The troops’ bravery frustrated the terrorists’ plans to disrupt peace and socio-economic activities in Bama and surrounding communities. Some of the fleeing terrorists sustained gunshot wounds as our forces maintained operational dominance,” she added.
The Army spokesperson described the fallen officers as heroes who sacrificed their lives for the protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty and stability, assuring that their legacies would remain a source of pride to the nation.
“The Nigerian Army deeply mourns these courageous men. Their sacrifices embody the spirit of service and patriotism. We will continue to honour their memory as we intensify efforts to eradicate terrorism from our nation,” Major Anele stated.
She also disclosed that the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, had extended condolences to the families of the deceased, describing them as “fathers, brothers, and sons who showed exceptional courage in the face of danger.”
Oluyede reaffirmed the military’s determination to sustain its offensive against all terrorist groups until lasting peace is achieved in the North-East and across Nigeria.
The Army further urged the public and media organisations to refrain from circulating images of the fallen soldiers until their next of kin have been duly notified, in order to preserve their dignity and respect their families’ privacy.
