DHQ: How We lost 22 soldiers, killed over 70 Terrorists in Fresh Borno clash + The Brave Story Of Lt. Col. T.E. Alari

The Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says the military lost 22 soldiers but eliminated over 70 terrorists during one of their operations in Borno State recently.

Director of Defence Media Operations, Edward Buba, made the disclosure in a statement on Sunday.

The military said the incident came during a clearance operation at a renowned terrorist stronghold and enclave known as Timbuktu Triangle.

“Overall, during the course of the operations, troops sadly recorded 22 killed in action casualties with several others wounded in action,”

According to him, the three-prong operation was aimed at dismantling the terrorist presence with a triangle and began on 16 January 25 till date.

Buba, however, said the troops killed over 70 terrorists including some of their commanders during the operations.

“Troops recorded several encounters with terrorists during the course of the clearance operations which resulted in over 70 terrorists combatants including 3 notable terrorist commanders neutralized. The terrorist commanders neutralised include and are not limited to the following: TALHA (Terrorist Special Forces Commander), Mallam UMAR (Terrorist Operations commander), and ?ABU YAZEED (Terrorist Brigade Commander),” he said.

The DHQ said the success was despite the terrorists deploying Improvised Explosive Devices( IEDs), Person Bourne Improvised Explosive Devices (suicide bombers) as well as Vehicle Bourne Improvised Explosive Devices (suicide bombers in explosive vehicles) to ward off troops advance and attacks”.

“Troops already familiar with the terrorist tactics thwarted several terrorist attempts, including shooting down the amateur drones used by the terrorist,” the DHQ said.

In July, seven troops were killed when their vehicle hit a landmine in a village where the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) is active.

The 15-year-old conflict has killed 40,000 and displaced around two million from their homes in the northeast.

The violence spilled into neighbouring Niger, Chad, and Cameroon, leading to the creation of a regional force to fight the militants

Lt. Col. T.E. Alari, a Fearless Leader and Defender of the Nation

In the face of unparalleled danger, there are individuals who embody the true essence of courage, leadership, and sacrifice. Lt. Col. T.E. Alari was one such man a gallant officer who stood as a bulwark against terror, giving his life so others might live in peace.

The Commanding Officer of the 149 Battalion, Lt. Col. Alari, was a nightmare to insurgents. His resolute determination and strategic brilliance in combat had dealt devastating blows to the ranks of ISWAP, earning him a reputation as a fearless leader who did not shy away from leading from the front. His name struck fear into the hearts of terrorists, and his presence on the battlefield inspired confidence among his troops.

On Jan. 24, 2025, while leading an operation in the Timbuktu Triangle, a bastion of terrorist activity in Damboa, Lt. Col. Alari once again demonstrated the true essence of leadership. Under his command, the 149 Battalion had successfully disrupted insurgent strongholds, neutralizing scores of terrorists and forcing them into retreat. But in a desperate last ditch effort, ISWAP insurgents deployed a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) against his troops.

The VBIED was intercepted and destroyed by the troops, but the shrapnel from the explosion tragically took the lives of those closest to the blast, including Lt. Col. Alari, who, as always, was at the front, leading his men. Even in the face of certain death, his bravery remained unwavering a true testament to his character.

Lt. Col. Alari was not just a soldier; he was a protector, a mentor, and a patriot. His relentless pursuit of justice and his commitment to the safety of his country will forever be remembered. He epitomized the qualities of a selfless leader always prioritizing the wellbeing of his troops and the mission above his own safety.

Beyond the battlefield, Lt. Col. Alari was a devoted son, husband, and father. His family, though bereaved, can take solace in the legacy he leaves behind a legacy of valor, service, and love for his nation.

As Nigeria mourns the loss of one of its finest, we must honor his memory by continuing the fight he so bravely led. Lt. Col. T.E. Alari’s sacrifice will not be in vain. His name will forever be etched in the annals of history as a hero who stood against terror and gave his all for his country.

Rest in peace, gallant soldier. Nigeria owes you a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid.

@ zagazola