The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai, on Saturday, inaugurated the newly constructed headquarters of the 331 Artillery Tactical Forward Operation Base (FOB) at Buratai, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State.
Before now, the base operated from the residence of Gen. Buratai, an indigene of the area, but the house was partially destroyed when the area was attacked in 2015
The chief of army staff described the base as a “game changer” in the fight against insurgency as it helped in decimating the terrorists.
Buratai said that incessant attacks by the terrorist at Buni Yadi in Yobe State, about one hour drive to Buratai town, necessitated the establishment of the base to contain their aggression in the area and decimate them.
He said that more of such bases would be set up in other areas in the North-East.
Maj.-Gen. Lucky Irabor, Theatre Commander, Operation Lafiya Dole recalled that “fierce battle took place in Buratai, particularly the residence of the chief of army staff, which the insurgents tried to take on three occasions.”