President Bola Tinubu has expressed his profound sympathy to the military following a deadly attack by members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in Sabon Gari, Damboa, Borno State, which resulted in the loss of six soldiers.

The ISWAP militants launched a pre-dawn assault on the military base last Saturday, arriving in trucks and on motorcycles. According to military sources, the attackers set fire to the base and military vehicles. In response, fighter jets deployed from Maiduguri, 100 kilometers away, successfully struck the retreating militants.

In a statement issued by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu ordered a “thorough investigation to uncover the circumstances that led to the unfortunate incident,” emphasizing that the inquiry should serve as a lesson to prevent similar attacks in the future.

“This resolute action by the Army demonstrates the capability and readiness of our military to confront and defeat threats to our nation’s security,” President Tinubu said. “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.”

The President also extended heartfelt sympathy and gratitude to the military and security forces, acknowledging their sacrifices and unwavering dedication. He reiterated that the Nigerian government stands firmly behind the armed forces in their ongoing fight against terrorism and criminality.

President Tinubu commended the swift and decisive response of the armed forces, particularly the air component, whose retaliatory air raids resulted in the neutralisation of numerous terrorists and the destruction of their assets.

“The targeted air raids were effective in neutralising many terrorists and destroying their equipment as they tried to flee,” he said.

The President further called for proactive military action to take the fight directly to the camps of terrorists and bandits, especially in the Northwest, where these groups continue to threaten the safety of local communities.

He also appealed to Nigerians and the media to support the military’s efforts in restoring peace and security to the nation.