A drone strike by suspected terrorists targeting a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, has left at least six soldiers injured. The attack, which occurred on Tuesday afternoon, represents a worrying escalation in tactics by insurgents operating in Nigeria’s Northeast.
According to information obtained by SaharaReporters, the incident unfolded when the terrorists initially launched an assault on the base, firing sporadically. The troops successfully repelled the attackers, forcing them to retreat. However, shortly after, multiple armed drones carrying locally fabricated grenades were deployed in a second wave of attack, causing significant damage.
A military signal reviewed by SaharaReporters confirmed the details of the assault. The communication outlined that a gun truck belonging to the Nigerian Army was destroyed during the drone strike, while five soldiers sustained injuries and required immediate medical attention.
The signal read in part:
“At about 231300A DEC 24, terrorists launched an attack using mortars and other firearms on troops at FOB Wajiroko in Damboa LGA. Troops repelled the attack, forcing the terrorists to withdraw in disarray.
Shortly after, at about 231323A DEC 24, FOB Wajiroko came under another attack using multiple armed drones carrying locally fabricated grenades. Troops observed up to four different armed drones. Own casualties: 5 soldiers sustained injuries; equipment casualties: 1 gun truck damaged. Boko Haram/ISWAP casualties: nil. Casualties received first aid and are awaiting evacuation to 25 Brigade Field Ambulance for further medical attention.”
The signal further indicated that while the general security situation at the base was calm, it remained highly unpredictable. It also noted that troop morale and fighting efficiency were satisfactory despite the attack.
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This latest incident underscores the evolving threat posed by terrorist groups, particularly Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). For nearly two decades, Nigeria has grappled with insurgency in the Northeast, with devastating consequences. Over 100,000 lives have been lost, and millions of people have been displaced, particularly in Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states.
While the Nigerian military has often claimed significant victories over these groups, incidents like the Wajiroko attack highlight the persistence and adaptability of the insurgents.
As security challenges in the region intensify, calls for enhanced surveillance and counter-drone measures have grown louder. The use of drones in insurgency operations represents a sophisticated shift in strategy, raising concerns about the military’s capacity to address emerging threats.
