The Nigerian Senate has paid solemn tribute to Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Paiko and other soldiers of the Nigerian Army who were killed while repelling a terrorist attack in Borno State, describing them as “gallant patriots” who died defending the peace and sovereignty of the nation.
The upper legislative chamber, in a statement issued by Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adua, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Army, extended condolences to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, and the grieving families of the fallen officers.
“On behalf of the Senate Committee on Army and the entire Senate, we extend our heartfelt condolences to the Nigerian Army and the families of these gallant officers,” the statement read.
“These brave souls gave their lives in the line of duty. Their sacrifice is a painful but powerful reminder of the price of peace.”
The soldiers, under the 21 Special Armoured Brigade of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI, were killed on October 17, 2025, while successfully foiling a planned attack by Boko Haram insurgents in the Kashimri general area of Bama Local Government Area.
According to the Army, Lt. Col. Paiko and his men stood their ground during the surprise assault and prevented what could have been a devastating offensive by the terrorists.
Senator Yar’adua assured that the Senate would continue to push for increased support, funding, and protection for the armed forces, especially those on the frontlines.
“We will work relentlessly to ensure that our military personnel are well-equipped, well-compensated, and well-respected.
“No sacrifice should ever go unnoticed or unappreciated, ” hr said.
The Senate also extended prayers for the families left behind, describing the pain of loss as immeasurable but urging them to take comfort in the knowledge that their loved ones died as heroes.
“May Almighty Allah grant the departed Jannatul Firdaus and give their families the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss.
Their names are now etched in the annals of our national history,” Yar’adua added.
While acknowledging the Army’s efforts in recent months, the Senate stressed the need for continued collaboration among security agencies and international partners to completely stamp out terrorism in the region.
“We must match courage with strategy. Our heroes must not die in vain,” the committee noted.
In a separate statement, Army spokesperson Brigadier General Appolonia Anele, hailed the troops’ “courage and resilience,” noting that their bravery prevented mass casualties and secured the surrounding communities.
“These soldiers stood in the gap for the rest of us.
“Their actions are emblematic of true military professionalism and selfless service to the nation, ” he said.
The attack in Bama comes amid renewed insurgent activities in the northeast region, raising security concerns and prompting fresh calls for strategic review and reinforcements.
Lt. Col. Paiko, a respected commander with years of combat experience, is survived by his wife and two children. A military burial is expected in the coming days.
