Nigeria: Boko Haram attacks military base in northeast August 8

Event

Boko Haram militants attacked a military base located in the northeastern village of Garunda (Borno state) on the night of Wednesday, August 8 (local time). According to military sources, at least 17 soldiers were killed and 14 others were wounded, while a number of others have been reported missing.

Context

The northeastern region of Nigeria is highly susceptible to attacks by Boko Haram. This was the third such attack to take place within the past month in the restive region. On July 14, an attack on the village of Jilli resulted in dozens of casualties. On July 26, insurgents invaded a military base in the village of Jakana, briefly taking control of the facilities.

While Nigerian military forces have pushed insurgents from much of their previously claimed territory over the past year, attacks by the group have been on the rise since June 2017.

Advice

The security environment in Nigeria remains complex. Although travel is permissible in some areas, other areas should be considered strictly off limits. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to travel.