By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, recorded significant operational successes in May 2025 as part of sustained efforts to enhance national security and protect Nigeria’s strategic interests. From confronting insurgents and armed criminals to dismantling illegal oil refineries, the AFN’s joint operations across the country underscore its resolve to tackle threats to peace, stability, and economic development.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, the Defence Headquarters affirmed its commitment to transparent and timely updates on military engagements across all theatres. He emphasized the AFN's approach in deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies, with a deliberate effort to minimize collateral damage and ensure the protection of civilian populations.
Operation DELTA SAFE Crude Oil Theft Foiled, Criminals Arrested, Troops disrupted oil theft operations valued at over ₦31.4 million, seizing 77,530 litres of stolen crude oil, 10,340 litres of illegally refined AGO, 2,700 litres of DPK, and 1,240 litres of PMS. In addition, they destroyed 27 illegal refining sites and 96 items of equipment, including boats, barges, and storage tanks. The operation also led to the arrest of 27 suspects and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
Troops also conducted anti-criminality operations in Delta, Rivers, and Bayelsa States, resulting in the arrest of 16 suspects and the seizure of weapons, electronics, and vehicles.
Operation HADIN KAI Terrorists Surrender, Kidnapped Victims Rescued, In the North East, intensified operations led to the surrender of dozens of ISWAP/JAS terrorists, including women and children, between May 30 and June 4. In coordinated offensives across Borno State, troops neutralized terrorists, arrested six, rescued 22 kidnapped victims, and recovered IEDs, arms, motorcycles, and vehicles.
Between June 1 and 4, troops arrested 16 terrorist logistics suppliers and collaborators in Yobe and Borno States, recovering IED materials, cash, and communication devices. Meanwhile, 12 kidnapped victims who escaped captivity were rescued around Kukawa LGA through non-kinetic means.
Operation FASAN YAMMA Terror Cells Dismantled in Northwest, troops engaged terrorists in Sokoto, Kaduna, and Zamfara States between May 30 and June 5, neutralizing several threats, arresting three suspects, and rescuing four victims. In Katsina and Zamfara, intelligence-led operations led to the elimination of terrorists and rescue of two victims. A female associate of a wanted terrorist leader, Kamalu, was among those arrested in Sokoto and Niger States.
Operation SAFE HAVEN Extremists Neutralized in Plateau, Kaduna, in Plateau and parts of Kaduna, troops thwarted extremist activities in LGAs including Riyom, Bassa, Mangu, and Barkin Ladi. Several extremists were killed, four arrested, and three kidnapped victims rescued. In separate anti-criminal operations, seven suspects were arrested, arms recovered, and livestock retrieved.
Operation WHIRL STROKE Criminal Gangs Crushed in North Central, troops conducted large-scale operations in Nasarawa, Benue, Taraba, Kogi, and Edo States. Extremists were eliminated and multiple criminal suspects, including identified ringleaders, were arrested. In total, troops recovered weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, mobile phones, and ₦534,600 in cash. A raid in Nasarawa led to the seizure of military uniforms and arms from a suspected impostor. Sixteen additional criminals were arrested across other states.
Operation UDO KA Criminal Activities Disrupted in South East, troops arrested four suspects in Ebonyi and Anambra States and recovered arms, ammunition, and a vehicle. All suspects were handed over to relevant authorities.
