Nigerian military forces repelled coordinated attacks by suspected Islamist militants on two bases in Pulka and Mandaragirau, Borno State, late Saturday, the Joint Task Force (North East) said Monday.

According to a statement from the military, the assaults were launched simultaneously, targeting defensive positions in both towns. Troops engaged the attackers with "discipline, tactical foresight, and steadfast resolve," holding their ground and inflicting heavy casualties.

In Pulka, militants advancing from the Sambisa Forest met a fierce firefight. A temporary breach of the perimeter resulted in the destruction of some military equipment, but rapid reinforcement forced the attackers to retreat.

"Credible intelligence indicates the terrorists suffered severe casualties, including a senior commander identified as Abou Aisha." who was killed during the engagement the statement said.

The military reported no casualties among Nigerian troops during the Pulka assault.

In Mandaragirau, militants mounted on gun trucks and motorcycles launched a multi-pronged attack. The Nigerian troops had pre-positioned combat teams and successfully repelled the offensive. While the location remained secure, several soldiers and Civilian Joint Task Force members were killed or injured. Injured personnel were evacuated via military aviation assets.

Follow‑up operations along the Kimba axis uncovered blood trails, shallow graves and abandoned equipment, underscoring the scale of militant losses.

The military praised the bravery and professionalism of its personnel, noting that the attacks reflect a "growing desperation of terrorist elements under sustained operational pressure."