Four officers have lost their lives in a fresh ambush by jihadists on security forces in northeastern Borno state, according to a statement by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Appolonia Anele, on Saturday.

Troops of 25 Task Force Brigade, on routine patrol to secure communities around Wajiroko in Azir Multe, Damboa LGA of Borno State, “came under a sudde’ and heavy insurgents’ fire while returning from a successful patrol” within the fringes of Sambisa Forest, the statement said in part.

The patrol team, which was led by the Commander 25 Brigade Brigadier General M Uba and comprised troops of 25 Task Force Brigade and members of Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), was said to have “courageously fought through the insurgents’ ambush with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray and to abandon their mission.

However, during the encounter, “two brave soldiers and two heroic CJTF members paid the supreme price while on active service to the nation.”

While commending the troops for their gallantry, the Army high command commiserates with families and associates of the deceased gallants for their heroic sacrifice to the nation.

The development was after the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, on Friday reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) unwavering commitment to defending the nation and eliminating insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements threatening peace and stability.

Air Marshal Aneke gave the assurance during an operational visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) Sector 2/213 Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Katsina.

Meanwhile, the Army Headquarters also debunked reports making the rounds, alleging the abduction of a Brigade Commander.

“The general public is hereby advised to disregard the fake news regarding the incident while praying for the continuous success of our gallant service men and women.”

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Nigerian Army Medal, saluted the uncommon bravery, resilience, and sacrifice of the gallant troops who have continued to operate in one of the most dangerous theatres of conflict on behalf of our dear nation.

“Their unflinching commitment, even in the face of grave danger, remains a powerful reminder of the daily sacrifices being made by our gallant service men and women to keep Nigeria safe,” the statement added. (Channels TV)