Boko Haram terrorists seized the Forward Operation Base in Ngoshe town, Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, on March 3, 2026. The assault killed 14 soldiers and numerous civilians. The insurgents also abducted more than 100 women and children during the raid. The attack marked a significant setback for security forces in the region.
Mobilization and Strategy
The General Officer Commanding visited Pulka on Friday to assess the situation. He mobilized 200 troops for the operation. An initial team of 60 soldiers entered Ngoshe but retreated to Pulka after detecting large-scale terrorist movements. The brigade commander of Gwoza then met with forces in Pulka and pledged additional support for the counter offensive.
The Recapture
Nigerian troops, working alongside members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, local vigilantes, and hunters, launched a coordinated assault on Wednesday. They engaged the remaining insurgents in a gun battle. A military source confirmed the success of the operation. “Today, we were able to recapture Ngoshe after engaging the remaining insurgents in a gun battle,” the source stated. “The town is fully under the control of the military.” Clearance operations continued to secure the broader area.
Government Response
Minister of Defence Christopher Musa summoned Service Chiefs to an emergency meeting in Abuja on Wednesday. The session addressed the resurgence of terrorist attacks across the North East. Speaking before the closed door meeting, Musa acknowledged military casualties but emphasized insurgent losses. “We know we have recorded some casualties but it is more on the side of terrorists,” he said. The meeting aimed to review operational strategies and strengthen counter terrorism measures.
Context of Recent Violence
The Ngoshe attack formed part of a broader wave of insurgent activity. Terrorists targeted multiple military bases in recent days, including facilities in Konduga, Mainok, Jakana, and Marte. The attacks killed more than 40 soldiers in total. Three Commanding Officers at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel died during separate engagements in Borno State. Hundreds of abducted civilians remained in captivity as of Wednesday.
