A fierce gun battle between Nigerian troops and suspected Boko Haram insurgents near the University of Maiduguri (UNIMAID) on Monday night triggered panic among students and residents. The clash, which occurred in the vicinity of the university, underscores the persistent security challenges in Borno State, despite ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
According to security sources, the insurgents attempted to infiltrate a military checkpoint near UNIMAID, prompting an immediate response from the Nigerian Army. Troops engaged the attackers in a heavy exchange of gunfire, forcing them to retreat into the surrounding bush.
Brigadier General Musa Alhassan, a senior military official overseeing operations in the Northeast, confirmed the confrontation. “Our troops successfully repelled the attackers before they could cause harm. Several insurgents were neutralized, while others fled with injuries. No casualties were recorded on the side of the security forces,” he stated.
The sound of gunfire sent students and nearby residents into panic, with many seeking shelter within the university premises and others fleeing toward Maiduguri’s city center.
A final-year student, Aisha Ibrahim, recounted her experience: “We were in our hostel when we heard loud gunshots. Everyone was scared. Some students ran toward the lecture halls, while others tried to call their families. It was terrifying.”
UNIMAID’s security unit assured students that the military had restored order and that there was no direct threat to the campus. Nevertheless, concerns over the proximity of the attack have heightened fears about the safety of students in the region.
Despite military gains against Boko Haram and its splinter faction, ISWAP, sporadic attacks continue in parts of Borno State. The Nigerian military has maintained a strong presence in the region, conducting counterterrorism operations to dismantle insurgent hideouts.
Security analyst Dr. Kabir Mustapha noted that while Boko Haram no longer holds significant territory, the group remains capable of launching ambushes and quick-hit attacks. “This incident near UNIMAID highlights the need for sustained intelligence gathering and proactive security measures to prevent insurgents from regrouping,” he said.
In response to the attack, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum commended the military’s swift action and assured residents of continued efforts to improve security. “We will not allow terrorists to instill fear in our people. Security forces are on high alert to prevent further threats,” he stated.
The government has also called for increased community vigilance and cooperation with security agencies to prevent future incursions.
While the Nigerian military successfully repelled the insurgents, the attack serves as a reminder that the fight against terrorism in the Northeast is far from over. Ensuring the safety of students and residents near conflict-prone areas requires continuous surveillance, intelligence-sharing, and reinforced military presence to prevent future threats.
