At least nine soldiers and one police officer have been killed following a deadly ambush by armed gunmen in Shanga Local Government Area.

The attack, which occurred on Tuesday night in the Giro Masa community, was confirmed by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris.

Eyewitnesses said the security operatives were responding to intelligence reports that suspected gunmen were hiding in a construction company yard when they were ambushed en route to the location.

Residents disclosed that the assailants, believed to have been operating in the area for some time, launched a sudden and coordinated attack on the troops, catching them off guard.

The assault reportedly left several casualties, including security personnel and at least two civilians, while two military trucks were set ablaze during the confrontation.

Locals described the incident as chaotic and terrifying, with heavy gunfire forcing residents to flee for safety.

Military authorities are yet to issue an official statement on the attack.

Governor Confirms Casualties

Speaking after visiting victims at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris condemned the attack as barbaric and expressed condolences to the families of the fallen personnel.

He assured that the state government would take responsibility for the treatment of the injured and provide support to the bereaved families.

“This is a sad incident. These are the soldiers who protect the lives of Kebbi residents, yet they found themselves in this situation. The Kebbi State Government will not relent in its efforts to protect the lives of its citizens,” he said.

The governor also visited the mortuary and later proceeded to the scene of the attack for an on-the-spot assessment, reiterating his administration’s commitment to strengthening security across the state.

Rising Security Concerns

The incident adds to a series of violent attacks targeting security forces across northern Nigeria.

In June 2025, the Nigerian Army confirmed the killing of 17 soldiers during a gun battle with suspected bandits in Mariga Local Government Area after troops responded to an attack on the Bangi community.

Similarly, in the North-East, insurgent groups such as Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province have continued to carry out deadly ambushes on military formations, particularly in Borno State.

The recurring attacks have heightened concerns over the safety of security personnel and the need for enhanced intelligence and operational strategies to counter evolving threats.