The Nigerian Army has said that it lost seven of its soldiers who were part of the counter-insurgency operations in Borno State, North East Nigeria.

Kingsley Samuel, a Lieutenant Colonel and Deputy Director Army Public Relations at the 7 Division, made this known in a statement issued on Saturday, adding that 19 soldiers were also injured in the encounter.

“Troops of Operation LAFIYA DOLE gallantly fought their way through Boko Haram terrorists ambush along Ajiri-Dikwa road, Borno State,” Samuel stated.

“Elements of troops affected encountered the ambush while conducting routine rotation of troops last night.

“The gallant troops fought their way through, killing many of the terrorists.”

The statement added that “unfortunately 7 soldiers paid the supreme price in the incident while 19 soldiers sustained various degree of injuries.”

“The soldiers who sustained injuries during the fierce encounter have been evacuated and are currently receiving treatment at Military hospital in Maiduguri.”

The Army spokesman said that the troops recovered one AK-47 rifle and ammunition from the insurgents, adding that “additional troops have been mobilized and are still on aggressive pursuit of the fleeing Boko Haram terrorists.”