Big Story: The Battle and Capture of Nsukka in July 1967

On May 30, 1967, Chukwuemeka Ojukwu made the official declaration of secession for the Eastern Region from Nigeria, proclaiming the birth of the Republic of Biafra... Read ..Full.. Article.. .

Later in July 1967, Nigerian military head of state, General Yakubu Gowon, ordered the Nigerian Army high command to regain control of the Eastern Region.

Nsukka’s Vulnerability

As tensions between the Nigerian government and the secessionist state of Biafra escalated, Nsukka, strategically located in the northern border of Biafra, found itself at the crossroads of a battle that would later cost the lives of countless soldiers and civilians.

The battle of Nsukka was part of Operation Unicord, an offensive launched by the Nigerian Army at the beginning of the Nigerian Civil War, that involved the capture of six major Biafran towns near their northern border.

The Launching of Operation Unicord

On July 2, 1967, the Nigerian Army began its offensive operations from the Northern part of Biafra. The First Area Command NA was organized into two brigades. Under the leadership of Maj. Sule Apollo, the 1st brigade advanced along the Ogugu-Ogunga-Nsukka road, while the 2nd brigade, led by Maj. Martin Adamu, moved down the Gakem-Obudu-Ogoja road.

In response, Biafran troops commanded by Brig. H.M. Njoku, defended their territory and initially repelled the Nigerian Army’s attack. However, the Nigerian Army adapted by recruiting local guides and informants to gather vital intelligence about Biafran forces, enabling them to adjust their strategy.

Over the course of 10 days, the Nigerian Army advanced southward, successfully capturing strategic Biafran towns including Nsukka, Ogugu, Ogunga, Ogoja, Gakem, and Obudu. This operation forced Biafran troops into disarray, marking a significant shift in the battle’s momentum.
The Aftermath

Sixteen days later, following the Biafran retreat, Major Kaduna Nzeogwu attempted to regain control of Nsukka but was unsuccessful. The Nigerian Army had secured Nsukka but had to slow its advance towards Enugu due to the invasion of the Mid-Western region, and..  Read . .More —