US Embassy Condemns Boko Haram Attack on Cameroonian Soldiers

The United States Embassy in Yaoundé has strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack that targeted Cameroonian soldiers serving in Nigeria as part of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF) in the Lake Chad Basin region. The attack, which occurred on March 24, 2025, has left a devastating toll on the Cameroonian military.

On behalf of the American people, the embassy extended its deepest condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers. “We stand with all Cameroonians as they mourn the loss of their fellow citizens,” the embassy statement read. “The dedication and sacrifice of these soldiers in the fight against terrorism stand as a powerful testament to their unwavering commitment to the safety and security of Cameroon and the region.”

A Powerful Legacy of Sacrifice

The embassy acknowledged the bravery of the Cameroonian soldiers, describing their actions as a vital contribution to the ongoing fight against terrorism in the region. “These soldiers gave their lives in defence of Cameroon and the region,” the statement noted. “They will not be forgotten, and their legacy will continue to inspire future generations.”

As part of the MNJTF, Cameroonian soldiers have been working alongside military forces from neighboring countries to combat the growing threat of Boko Haram and other extremist groups that have destabilised the Lake Chad Basin area for years. This attack marks yet another chapter in the ongoing struggle for peace and security in the region.

Inconsistencies Surrounding the Casualty Count

While the exact number of casualties from the attack remains uncertain, the incident has caused confusion and concern over the discrepancies in reported figures. Initial reports from witnesses and security sources indicated that at least 20 Cameroonian soldiers had been killed in the attack. However, the Cameroonian Ministry of Defence later confirmed that 12 soldiers from the Multinational Joint Task Force had died in the attack, a number significantly lower than the initial estimates.

According to local reports, the assailants, believed to be Boko Haram militants, launched a surprise assault on military positions in the Wulgo area, a village near the Nigeria-Cameroon border. The attack involved heavily armed militants, and several soldiers were also reported to have sustained injuries. Despite the discrepancy in casualty figures, both official and eyewitness accounts agree that the attack was swift, brutal, and devastating for the soldiers involved.

Background on Boko Haram’s Ongoing Threat

Boko Haram, the infamous Islamist militant group, has been waging a violent insurgency across Nigeria and neighbouring countries, including Cameroon, Chad, and Niger. The group, which initially focused on attacking civilian targets, has increasingly turned its attention to military installations and security forces in the region.

The Lake Chad Basin area, where the Multinational Joint Task Force operates, has become one of the epicentres of the Boko Haram insurgency. The MNJTF combats the growing security threats in this region, yet the situation remains precarious. Terrorist groups like Boko Haram continue to destabilise the area, contributing to a prolonged humanitarian crisis.

Calls for Accountability and Action

The tragic attack has sparked strong reactions from political and civil society leaders, including from within Cameroon. Several prominent figures, including Samuel Eto’o, Michèle Ndoki, and Maurice Kamto, have issued statements condemning the violence and calling for stronger leadership and military reforms.

“These 11 fallen patriots defended our freedom and integrity,” said Eto’o, a former international footballer and prominent public figure in Cameroon, referring to the 11 soldiers reportedly killed in the attack. “Cameroon will never forget their sacrifice.”

Michèle Ndoki, a human rights activist and leader of Les Bâtisseurs de la Nation, expressed her outrage over the killings, demanding not only mourning but also action. “We need to demand accountability, better leadership, and a real commitment to securing our nation,” Ndoki stated in her message.

Meanwhile, Maurice Kamto, leader of the Cameroon Renaissance Movement (CRM), criticised the military high command for failing to effectively protect soldiers and emphasised the need for urgent reforms in the military structure.

A Shared Commitment to Peace

In its statement, the US Embassy reaffirmed its support for the Cameroonian people and their fight against terrorism. “The United States remains committed to working with Cameroon and its regional partners to strengthen efforts to combat terrorism and promote stability in the region.”

As Cameroon struggles to come to terms with the aftermath of this attack, the USA and the international community are standing in solidarity with the country in its efforts to achieve peace and security in the face of relentless threats.

Mimi Mefo Info