26 Nigerian Soldiers Reported Dead In Boko Haram IED Blast In Borno, 20 Others Wounded

Borno State, Nigeria — A devastating attack in northeastern Nigeria has left at least 26 Nigerian soldiers dead and 20 others wounded after their convoy struck an improvised explosive device (IED) planted by Boko Haram insurgents. The incident occurred on Monday, April 28, 2025, along the Rann–Gamboru Ngala road in Borno State.

According to reports, the soldiers were traveling in two military vehicles when they hit the IED, resulting in a massive explosion that killed 26 personnel instantly. Twenty others sustained varying degrees of injuries and were evacuated for medical treatment. The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), a Boko Haram splinter group, claimed responsibility for the attack via a statement on Telegram.

This attack is part of a recent surge in violence in Nigeria's northeast, where Boko Haram and ISWAP have intensified their operations. Analysts attribute this resurgence to reduced infighting between the two groups, increased tactical support and funding from the Islamic State, and the adoption of sophisticated weaponry, including armed drones and roadside explosives.

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has expressed concern over the militants' regrouping in the Lake Chad islands, Sambisa Forest, and Mandara mountains, citing military setbacks as a contributing factor.

The Nigerian military has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. Efforts to reach the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Lieutenant Colonel Apolonia Anele, were unsuccessful at the time of this report.

This tragic event underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Nigerian security forces in combating insurgency in the region.