The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the death of Oseni Braimah, a brigadier-general of the 29th Brigade, who was killed in Benisheikh, Kaga LGA, Borno State, during a terrorist attack on Thursday morning.
Michael Onoja, director of defence media operations, said in a statement on Friday that Braimah was murdered together with another officer and two soldiers while “making the ultimate sacrifice in the defence of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”
“On 9 April 2026, troops deployed in Benisheikh in Kaga LGA of Borno State came under terrorists’ attack. Troops engaged the terrorists and held their ground. Regrettably, some personnel paid the supreme price; including the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General OO Braimah and 3 other Armed Forces personnel,” the statement reads.
Onoja characterised Braimah as someone “whose conspicuous bravery, personal leadership under fire, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of his troops reflect the highest ideals and traditions of the Nigerian military.”
“The AFN mourns deeply with the families, loved ones, and colleagues of these fallen heroes. Their courage will forever be etched in the history of the AFN,” he added.
“To the families of the fallen, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede and the entire AFN stand with you in this moment of deep sorrow.
“Your loved ones were not ordinary citizens; they were extraordinary Nigerians who chose to stand between danger and the rest of the nation.
“Nigerians are further assured that the loss of these heroes will not diminish but rather fortify the resolve of the Armed Forces.
“Operations across all theatres will continue with even greater determination as a lasting tribute to the memory of those who have fallen.”
The Nigerian Army has previously disputed what it called “exaggerated reports” stating that a brigade commander was murdered in a terrorist attack in Benisheikh.
According to a statement published on Friday by Sani Uba, media information officer of the headquarters joint task force (north east), Operation HADIN KAI, reports claiming that 17 troops, including a brigade commander, were killed in the event are incorrect.
Uba did not provide the identity of the officers and troops slain in the incident but stated that the claim that 17 individuals died is “entirely false, misleading, and devoid of credibility.”
