New revelations have emerged about the heroic legacy of Major MM Hassan, a gallant officer of the Nigerian Army remembered for his exceptional courage in the fight against Boko Haram insurgents in Borno State.
Popularly known among his comrades as “Sarkin Yaki” — a Hausa term meaning “King of War” — Major Hassan was a frontline commander in multiple counter-insurgency operations around Damboa, one of the hardest-hit areas in the North-East region during the peak of the insurgency.
Hassan was known for leading high-risk operations that successfully reclaimed several strategic locations from terrorist control. His tactical brilliance and fearless leadership earned him widespread admiration within the military ranks, and according to security sources, made him a high-value target for Boko Haram.
In fact, intelligence reports at the time revealed that Abubakar Shekau, the former Boko Haram leader, allegedly placed a ₦10 million bounty on his head — a testament to the threat Hassan posed to the terror group’s stronghold.
Tragically, on January 5, 2018, during a heated exchange of gunfire with insurgents near Damboa, a grenade accidentally detonated after slipping from Major Hassan’s vest, claiming his life instantly.
He was 35 years old at the time of his death and left behind a wife and young children.
Military sources and colleagues continue to remember Major Hassan as a symbol of sacrifice, patriotism, and bravery in the ongoing fight against terrorism.
“He was always ready, always at the front,” a fellow officer said. “His death was a loss not just to the army, but to the nation.”
Calls have since grown for the Federal Government to immortalise Major Hassan’s contributions through national honours or memorials, as part of efforts to acknowledge those who gave their lives in defence of Nigeria.
May his soul rest in peace.
