The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has confirmed an attack by Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists on a military base in Benisheikh, Borno State.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the DHQ said troops of Operation Hadin Kai repelled the assault, which occurred around 12:30 a.m. when insurgents attempted to breach the Headquarters of the 29 Task Force Brigade.

According to the military, troops responded with “superior firepower,” forcing the attackers to retreat and abandon their mission.

The DHQ described the attack as a sign of desperation by terrorist groups following sustained military pressure in the North-East.

It confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the encounter, with the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, paying tribute to the fallen troops and extending condolences to their families.

However, the military did not confirm reports alleging the killing of Brigade Commander, O. O. Braimah, during the attack.

The DHQ said further details would be released after the next of kin of affected personnel have been duly informed, urging the public to disregard unverified reports circulating on social media.

Meanwhile, clearance operations are ongoing to track fleeing insurgents and prevent them from regrouping.

The military reaffirmed its commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations and called on citizens to support security agencies with credible intelligence.