Suspected Islamist militants killed at least 20 Nigerian soldiers, including a commanding officer, during a brazen assault on an army base in northeastern Borno state, security sources and residents reported on Sunday. The attack, carried out by members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), targeted the Nigerian Army’s 149 Battalion in Malam-Fatori, a remote town near the border with Niger.

According to survivors, the militants arrived in gun trucks on Friday and launched a surprise attack, overwhelming the troops after more than three hours of intense fighting. "They rained bullets everywhere," said one soldier who survived the assault. "We tried to repel the attack, but they overpowered us, killing our commanding officer, a lieutenant colonel." The soldier, who requested anonymity, confirmed that 20 soldiers died and several others were injured.

Residents reported that the militants remained in the town as late as Saturday night, burning buildings and forcing civilians to flee. Malakaka Bukar, a local militia member assisting the army, said the insurgents also preached to some residents before retreating.

Boko Haram and ISWAP, both active in Borno state, have intensified attacks in the region since the beginning of the year, targeting security forces and civilians alike. Despite being weakened by military operations and internal conflicts, the groups continue to pose a significant threat, displacing thousands and causing widespread devastation.