Shortly after extending its blockade to include oil, the Nigerian government launched a "police action '' to retake the secessionist territory. The war began on the early hours of 6 July 1967 when Nigerian Federal troops advanced in two columns into Biafra. The Biafra strategy had succeeded. The federal government had started the war, and the East was one defending itself. The Nigerian Army offensive was through the north of Biafra led by Colonel Mohammed Shuwa and the local military units were formed as the 1st Infantry Division. The division was led mostly by northern officers. After facing unexpectedly fierce resistance and high casualties, the right - hand Nigerian column advanced on the town of Nsukka which fell on 14 July, while the left - hand column made for Garkem, which was captured on 12 July.
when did the civil war start in nigeria
the early hours of 6 July 1967