In a daring early morning engagement, soldiers of Operation Hadin Kai successfully thwarted a coordinated attack by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists on the Naval Base located at Lake Chad Fish Dam. The assault, which unfolded around 2 a.m. on Wednesday, was thwarted through swift and strategic military response, resulting in the deaths of numerous insurgents and the destruction of critical terrorist equipment.

According to a statement issued on the Nigerian Army's official X (formerly Twitter) handle, the militants aimed to sabotage newly acquired swamp bogeys provided by the Borno State Government, intended to facilitate waterways clearance in the region. The terrorists attempted to infiltrate the naval base with the intent to destroy this vital infrastructure, which is crucial for local transportation and military operations in the Lake Chad area.

The attack commenced in the early hours and was met with fierce resistance from personnel stationed at the Naval Base alongside reinforcements from troops in Baga. The ensuing firefight extended for over two hours, showcasing the coordination and resilience of Nigerian security forces. Despite the aggressive assault, the terrorists were ultimately compelled to retreat.

The military's detailed account revealed that the joint operation involved land, maritime, and air components working in tandem to counter the insurgents. The operation resulted in the neutralization of a significant number of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, with reports stating scores of militants were killed during the clash. Troops also recovered Improvised Explosive Device (IED) materials and other weaponry from the scene.

Casualty reports indicate that the terrorists' incursion caused the destruction of one ambulance and two vehicles, while some military personnel sustained injuries during the confrontation. The Nigerian Air Force has deployed aircraft to conduct follow-up operations along the waterways, aiming to further weaken the terrorists’ foothold in the region and prevent future attacks.

This incident underscores the ongoing threat posed by Boko Haram and ISWAP militants, but also highlights the resilience and effectiveness of Nigeria's military in defending key installations and maintaining security in the Lake Chad Basin.