Nigerian Army troops on patrol
Several Nigerian Army soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) have been killed after terrorists launched a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED) attack on troops operating in the Timbuktu Triangle.
The incident occurred on January 20, 2026, during ongoing offensive operations by troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) against insurgent elements in the area.
In a statement issued and signed by Lieutenant Colonel Sani Uba, the Media Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, and made available to newsmen on Wednesday, the army said troops encountered two VBIEDs while consolidating at a harbour area about six kilometres north of Chilaria.
“On 20 January 2026, while consolidating at a harbour area approximately 6 km North of Chilaria, troops encountered 2 Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIED),” the statement said.
According to the military, one of the explosives-laden vehicles was successfully neutralised through swift action, but the second breached the defensive position.
“Through vigilance and swift action, one VBIED was successfully neutralised. The second VBIED, however, breached the defensive position affecting some logistics platforms,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba said.
He confirmed that the attack claimed the lives of some soldiers and CJTF members, while others were wounded.
“In the course of this attack, some gallant soldiers and members of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the supreme price, while others sustained injuries,” the statement added.
The wounded were immediately evacuated for medical attention.
“The wounded were promptly evacuated by Nigerian Army Aviation helicopters to 7 Division Medical Services and Hospital,” it said.
The statement further disclosed that Nigerian Air Force platforms provided aerial cover during the evacuation to ensure the safety of both the casualties and ground troops.
“Throughout the evacuation, Nigerian Airforce platforms from the Air Component in synergy with other Nigerian Army air platforms provided continuous overwatch to ensure the safe extraction of casualties and the security of ground forces neutralising more terrorists in the process,” Lieutenant Colonel Uba stated.
Despite the deadly attack, the military said operations are continuing with sustained pressure on fleeing insurgents.
“Across the Theatre, the security situation remains generally stable. Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high, and operations continue with sustained pressure on fleeing terrorist elements,” the statement said.
The Nigerian Army reiterated its determination to defeat terrorism in the North East.
“Troops of OPHK remain resolute in their commitment to protect civilians, dismantle terrorist networks, and restore lasting peace and security across the North East,” it concluded.
