By our reporter 20.10.2025
The Nigeria army has confirmed the killing of the Commanding Officer of the 202 Tank Battalion, Lt. Col. Aliyu Paiko, and several soldiers, during an attack in the Kashimri area of Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.
Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Maj. Appolonia Anele, said in a statement on Monday that the troops of Operation Hadin Kai foiled a planned terrorist attack but suffered casualties in the fierce encounter.
“Troops of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade on 17 October 2025 successfully foiled an attack planned by Boko Haram terrorists around the Kashimri general area of Bama Local Government Area, Borno State.
“However, the encounter took its toll on our side, as the Commanding Officer, 202 Tank Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Saidu Paiko, and a few other valiant soldiers paid the supreme price as they fell in battle,” the statement read.
“During the operation, the troops engaged the terrorists in a fierce gunfight, neutralised several, while others fled with injuries.”
She described the fallen soldiers as heroes who fought for the peace and stability of the country, assuring that their legacies would be remembered.
“The Nigerian Army will continue to honour the weight of their sacrifices. Their loss reminds us of our unyielding resolve to stamp out the scourge of terrorism from our great nation,” the statement said.
It added that the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, extended his condolences to the families of the deceased, describing them as “fathers, brothers, and sons who showed immeasurable courage in the face of adversity.”
According to reports the attackers also carted away military weapons, including two AK-47 rifles and one submachine gun.
Lt. Col. Paiko falls in Bama.