Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters attacked a military base in Kukawa, Borno State, on Tuesday night, October 6, killing some soldiers before troops repelled the assault and neutralised more than 25 insurgents.

The attack targeted troops of the 101 Special Forces Battalion in Kukawa and was launched from four directions, according to the Acting Military Information Officer of Operation Hadin Kai, Captain Mohammed Goni.

The engagement lasted from about 9 p.m. to 11 p.m., with troops supported by the Air Component in repelling the insurgents.

A preliminary assessment showed that more than 25 terrorists were neutralised, while 14 bodies were recovered from the area. Troops also recovered six AK-47 rifles and other weapons following the operation.

The Nigerian Army confirmed that some soldiers were killed during the encounter but did not disclose the number of casualties.

However, a senior military officer cited by international media put the number of soldiers killed at 10. The figure has not been officially confirmed by the Nigerian Army.

The military said troops would sustain pressure against insurgent groups through aggressive patrols, intelligence-led operations and coordinated actions with sister services and other security agencies.

The latest attack underscores the continuing security challenge in parts of Borno State, where ISWAP and other insurgent groups continue to target military positions and communities.

ISWAP, which emerged as a faction of Boko Haram, has carried out repeated attacks against military formations in northeastern Nigeria, particularly in remote areas where security forces face difficult terrain and logistical challenges.

The military's latest operation comes amid continued efforts by Nigerian security forces to disrupt insurgent networks and prevent them from overrunning military positions or seizing weapons.