President Bola Tinubu has expressed condolences to the Nigerian military following the loss of six soldiers in a terrorist attack on January 4, 2025, at an army base in Sabon Gida, Damboa, Borno State.
The president conveyed his sympathy to the families of the fallen soldiers, acknowledging their ultimate sacrifice in defense of the nation.
In a statement released on Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, President Tinubu called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the attack. He emphasized the importance of learning from the incident to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
The statement also praised the military for its swift and effective response to the attack, particularly the air component, which carried out retaliatory airstrikes. These strikes were credited with neutralizing a significant number of terrorists and destroying their assets as they attempted to flee.
President Tinubu commended the military’s resilience, stating that the army’s decisive actions demonstrate its readiness to confront and defeat security threats. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating terrorism and banditry, stressing that such actions are crucial in ensuring a future of peace and security for all Nigerians.
The president further extended his gratitude to the military and security forces on behalf of the nation, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication. He reiterated the government’s unwavering support for the ongoing fight against terrorism and criminality.
Additionally, President Tinubu called on the military to take a more proactive stance, particularly in the Northwest, where bandits and terrorists continue to pose a serious threat to innocent communities. He also appealed to Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts in restoring peace and security across the country.
The statement reads, “The president commends the armed forces for their swift and decisive response, particularly the air component, in launching effective retaliatory strikes.
“The targeted air raids resulted in the significant neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets as they attempted to flee.”
President Tinubu remarks: “This resolute action by the army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security. Their actions testify to our resolve to eradicate terrorism and banditry, paving the way for a future where peace and security prevail for all Nigerians.
“I extend heartfelt gratitude and sympathy to our military and security forces on behalf of a grateful nation.
“Your sacrifices and dedication do not go unnoticed, and we stand firmly behind you in this ongoing fight to eliminate these threats.”
In the same vein, President Tinubu “appeals to Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts to restore peace and security in our beloved nation.”