The assault occurred late Tuesday in Shanga local government area, where security personnel had been deployed following warnings of an imminent attack, according to state government spokesman Yahaya Sarki.

Several soldiers were also injured when militants opened fire in the village of Giron Masa.

Officials said the attackers struck as troops were mobilizing, leaving multiple casualties and destroying vehicles. Images released by authorities showed burned military equipment along a rural road surrounded by forested terrain.

Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris visited injured personnel in hospital, describing the incident as a significant loss and pledging support for affected families.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, though residents have pointed to the Islamic State Sahel Province, locally known as Lakurawa, which has become increasingly active in northwestern Nigeria.

Militant groups linked to Islamic State and other networks have expanded operations across border regions in recent years, exploiting limited state presence and porous frontiers.

Worsening security crisisThe attack underscores a broader pattern of violence across northern Nigeria, where security forces and civilians are frequently targeted.

The region has witnessed a surge in militant activity, kidnappings and armed raids, with multiple deadly incidents reported in recent months.

Authorities have not announced immediate retaliatory measures as investigations continue into the Kebbi ambush.