​​​​Nigerian Army reinforces Yobe town after Boko Haram attack

The Nigerian Army has sent reinforcement of troops after Boko Haram insurgents attacked Geidam town on Wednesday.

Geidam is 180 kilometers from Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State and​ is​ a border town between Nigeria and Niger Republic.

A statement by army spokesman, Sani Usman, said the terrorists attacked Sector 1 of 27 Task Force Brigade, located in the town.

Mr. Usman said the attack was successfully repelled by the troops and reinforcement was sent.

According to him, Nigerian troops killed most of the terrorists and destroyed their weapons and equipment.

He however revealed that the Nigerian Army lost three soldiers and “some equipment” during the attack.

“However and regretfully too, we lost 3 soldiers and some equipment during the encounter.

“The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai who was on operational visit to North East, personally visited the troops location, assessed the damage done. He warned the officers of the unit that such ugly incident should not be allowed to happen again.

“The COAS also drove into the town and further assessed damage by the terrorists and gave further directives to the troops for the defence and improved security of the general area. He also met with some of the community leaders and Idris Aloma Polytechnic staff where he assure them of their safety and improved security.

“The situation in Geidam is now calm and people are going about their normal businesses.

“The Nigerian Army wishes to assure the public that this isolated incident would not be allowed to repeat itself. We reaffirm our determination and commitment to root out the Boko Haram terrorists in all their enclaves before the end of this year.

“The Chief of Army Staff has continued his operational visit to other formations and units within the theatre of war against the Boko Haram terrorists,” said Mr. Usman, a colonel.

According to Mr. Usman, the Chief of Army Staff was received at Geidam by the General Officer Commanding 3 Division, Major General Hassan Umaru and Acting Commander 27 Task Force Brigade who led the reinforcement team on Wednesday night.