At least 15 Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters were killed during a failed midnight assault on New Marte in Borno State, military sources confirmed on Tuesday.

According to reliable sources, the insurgents launched a coordinated attack on Nigerian soldiers stationed in New Marte around 1:35 a.m. on Tuesday. The attackers arrived on approximately 20 motorcycles and were equipped with a Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Device (VBIED), apparently intended to breach the battalion's defensive positions.

The attack was swiftly repelled by the combined firepower of Nigerian troops under Operation Hadin Kai, with crucial air support provided by the Nigerian Air Force Air Component. Under sustained ground fire and aerial bombardment, the insurgents were forced to retreat, hastily evacuating the bodies of their fallen comrades.

Military intelligence source Zagazola Makama reported that the terrorists abandoned their VBIED, which was intended to cause maximum damage to the military installation, as they fled the battlefield.

This failed attack represents another attempt by ISWAP to establish control over strategic locations in Borno State, following several previous unsuccessful efforts to capture military positions in the region.

The Nigerian military continues to maintain vigilance across the northeastern region as counter-insurgency operations remain ongoing against both ISWAP and Boko Haram factions operating in the area.