The families of our wounded warriors don’t often get a lot of fanfare, but they’re serving and sacrificing right alongside their loved ones. We all owe a debt to them, too, and Fisher House is always making sure we’re serving those who serve us – Barack Obama

Bulama Biu, the general officer commanding, 7 Division of the Nigerian Army, based in Maiduguri, was elevated as a major-general on July 9 based on his “extraordinary feats, exemplary leadership, commitment and valour,” 

On July 17, Mr Biu spoke about his promotion in an open message to Boko Haram insurgents, admonishing them to “celebrate” with him or risk being wiped out.

“I want to assure them that I have returned to Maiduguri more reinvigorated, well energised,” the army chief was quoted by Sahara Reporters as saying.

But around 6:00 p.m. on July 17, barely hours after Mr Biu’s media address at the theatre command headquarters in Maiduguri, Nigerian soldiers came under attack about 50 kilometres away in Jakana, a midsize town which Boko Haram has long used as a base along the Maiduguri-Damaturu Highway.

The fierce combat ended with at least six soldiers killed, and several Boko Haram fighters gunned down. A colonel and a captain were amongst those who lost their lives.

Dozens of soldiers who were seriously wounded in the attack were taken to the military hospital in Maiduguri.