Military Operations Yield Major Results Against Terrorism
Recent military operations across Nigeria have led to the elimination of at least 12 terrorists, the arrest of over 25 suspects and collaborators, and the rescue of approximately 40 kidnapped civilians. In addition, the forces successfully recovered more than 25 types of weapons, along with substantial quantities of ammunition and logistics materials.
An operational update on the coordinated military efforts indicates that the armed forces disrupted numerous kidnapping networks, dismantled criminal settlements, intercepted illegal oil supply activities, and undermined the logistical capabilities of various violent groups throughout the nation.
Director of Defense Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, reported that within the framework of Operation Hadin Kai, troops in the North East maintained relentless pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP factions throughout Borno State. In separate operations along the Damasak-Gubio corridor, as well as in the Gwoza, Bama, and Pulka areas, the military killed three terrorists, apprehended four collaborators, and successfully rescued over 20 civilians.
Additionally, the operations resulted in the recovery of 817 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and three motorcycles, while also disrupting the supply and intelligence networks utilized by rebel groups operating in the Mandala Mountains and the Sambisa region.
In the Northwest, under Operation Funsan Yamma, forces eliminated seven terrorists, arrested six suspects, and freed around 15 kidnapped victims across Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Kaduna states. The operation yielded significant recoveries, including three AK-47 rifles, four magazines, an RPG launcher, three motorcycles, and materials related to explosives, particularly in areas where several bandit camps were neutralized during clearing operations in Zurmi, Jibia, and the General Dandi regions.
Moving to the North-Central region, Operation Savannah Shield resulted in the detention of at least 10 suspects, including informants and logistical supporters affiliated with terrorist networks operating in Kwara, Kogi, Oyo, and Niger states. Coordinated intelligence-led raids also led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition, mobile phones, and camouflage materials.
Moreover, under Operation Enduring Peace, two suspects were arrested, one of whom was a dismissed police inspector found with a locally manufactured pistol and 167 rounds of 9mm ammunition, as well as materials related to impersonation. Additional arrests of individuals in possession of loaded AK-47 magazines and illegal firearms were also made in Kaduna State.
In Operation Circling, military personnel arrested six suspects and rescued five victims of kidnapping through intelligence-driven initiatives in Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa states. The operation disrupted arms trafficking and the activities of informants linked to kidnapping syndicates operating in forested regions.
In the South-South, under Operation Delta Safe, forces apprehended eight suspects connected to oil theft and kidnapping rings, recovering over 65,000 liters of stolen petroleum products, which included 45,000 liters of black oil in Akwa Ibom and 20,000 liters of illegally refined diesel in Rivers State. Destructive operations also targeted illegal refineries in Bayelsa and surrounding coastal communities.
In the Southeast, under Operation Udo Ka, the military arrested three suspected operatives of IPOB and ESN, including a logistics coordinator and a field commander, effectively disrupting the illegal group’s supply chain and operational framework. Overall, the Nigerian military recovered over 25 types of assorted weapons and significant quantities of ammunition across various theaters, reinforcing ongoing efforts to diminish criminal firepower throughout the nation.
Major General Onoja emphasized that these operations highlight the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment to dismantling terrorist and criminal networks while restoring stability across Nigeria. He noted that all actions were executed under strict rules of engagement and in accordance with international humanitarian law, with a continuous focus on protecting civilians, fostering interagency collaboration, and conducting intelligence-led targeting. The Nigerian Army remains resolute in its determination to sustain operational momentum until all criminal elements are neutralized, ensuring a lasting peace across the country.
