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Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 101 Special Forces Battalion in Kukawa, Borno State, have repelled a major attack by Islamic State West Africa Province terrorists on their military base.

The attack occurred between 9 p.m. and 11:30 p.m. on Tuesday, when the terrorists launched a coordinated assault on the base from four directions.

Security sources told counter-insurgency expert Zagazola Makama that the troops, supported by the Air Component, engaged the attackers in a prolonged gun battle before repelling the assault.

More than 25 terrorists were reportedly killed, while troops recovered 14 bodies, six AK-47 rifles and other arms and ammunition abandoned by the fleeing fighters.

The military also suffered casualties, with some soldiers reportedly killed and others injured during the encounter.

Following the attack, the Brigade Commander visited the area to coordinate the repositioning of troops, replenishment of personnel and equipment, and further exploitation of the battlefield.

The operation comes as the military intensifies efforts to prevent terrorist groups from gaining ground in Kukawa and other parts of the Lake Chad region.