Two Security Operatives Killed as Troops Rescue Abducted NECO Candidates in Borno Attack

A Nigerian soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) were killed during a military operation that rescued students abducted while sitting for the National Examinations Council (NECO) examinations in Borno State.

The attack occurred at Lassa Day Secondary School in Askira/Uba Local Government Area, where armed insurgents reportedly stormed the school, opened fire and abducted students, teachers and traders within the premises.

Security authorities confirmed that several victims were rescued, while efforts continue to locate and recover others still missing.

According to officials of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), troops launched a coordinated rescue operation supported by military aircraft after receiving reports of the attack.

Acting Military Information Officer of OPHK, Capt. Muhammed Goni, stated that troops engaged the abductors around the Daggu area with aerial surveillance and strike support guiding ground operations.

The operation led to the successful rescue of 10 abducted persons, including examination candidates and teachers, who were recovered unharmed and are receiving care.

However, the military confirmed that the mission came at a cost.

“One gallant soldier of OPHK and a member of the CJTF paid the supreme sacrifice during the exchange of fire with the terrorists,” the military statement said.

Security forces also recovered seven motorcycles believed to have been used by the attackers.

Meanwhile, Borno State Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar, said rescue efforts remain ongoing and authorities were still verifying the total number of abductees.

Eyewitness accounts provided further insight into the rescue.

In a video released after the incident, Vice Principal Paul Namaske explained that military air support disrupted the movement of the attackers and created an opportunity for captives to escape.

According to him:

“When the aircraft started hovering over us, the insurgents dispersed. We heard gunshots from the soldiers and they began to run while we escaped.”

Namaske estimated that the abductors had taken more than 20 students and two teachers, although exact figures were still being confirmed.

The attack follows reports that 42 pupils and students were abducted in the same local government area last month, raising fresh concerns about repeated attacks on schools.

The incident has renewed concerns over security around schools in Nigeria’s North-East despite years of military operations against insurgent groups.

Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) described the incident as evidence that armed groups continue to pose serious threats to communities and educational institutions.

The organisation questioned whether current security measures are sufficient to prevent repeated attacks on vulnerable civilian locations.

Former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, also called for stronger collaboration between federal and state authorities to improve security and prevent further abductions.

Security analysts have repeatedly warned that attacks on schools carry consequences beyond immediate casualties, disrupting education, increasing displacement and creating long-term social and economic effects for affected communities.

The rescue operation in Borno delivered relief for several abducted students and teachers, but the deaths of two security operatives underscore the continuing risks faced by those responding to insurgency.

As rescue efforts continue, the latest incident adds urgency to calls for stronger protection of schools and more coordinated security responses across affected regions.