In response to a recent violent assault on a military outpost in Borno State, the Senate has directed the country’s Armed Forces to scale up counter-insurgency activities in the North-East. The Senate emphasized the need for advanced surveillance, better intelligence sharing, and improved tactical capabilities to curb the rising insecurity.
The resolution was prompted by a motion from Senator Tahir Monguno, representing Borno North. He detailed a sophisticated attack carried out by insurgents on March 9, 2026, against an Army base located in the Kukawa Local Government Area. The confrontation, which involved attackers approaching from several directions, resulted in a prolonged firefight.
Tragically, the encounter led to the deaths of several personnel, including Lieutenant Colonel Umar Faroug. The late officer was recognized by lawmakers as a pivotal figure in the stabilization of Kukawa, having led the efforts to return displaced civilians to their homes after the area was previously reclaimed from terrorists.
Senator Monguno’s motion further revealed that the insurgents managed to destroy military vehicles and seize weaponry during the raid. This incident is viewed as a worrying escalation in a fresh wave of violence targeting security forces, despite the ongoing efforts of Operation HADIN KAI.
While acknowledging the courage of the troops on the front lines, the Senate stressed that the military must receive better logistical support to maintain the progress made so far. To honor those who fell during the defense of the Kukawa base, the lawmakers observed a moment of silence during the plenary session.
