By Harriet Tornguvan -Abuja
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded significant counterterrorism successes across multiple theatres of operation nationwide, reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives, property and national security.
In line with a presidential directive, the Defence Headquarters has launched Operation SAVANAH SHIELD, a special security initiative carved out of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, aimed at intensifying military operations in Kwara and Niger states.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, reiterated that the military’s primary mandate remains the protection of citizens, respect for the rule of law and the preservation of fundamental human rights.
General Oluyede also expressed condolences to the Government and people of Kwara State, particularly families affected by the recent attacks on Woro and Nuku villages in Kaiama Local Government Area on 4 February 2026. He assured that those responsible would be brought to justice through coordinated efforts with other security agencies.
The statement disclosed that troops, across ongoing operations, recovered large caches of arms and ammunition, including automatic weapons, Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms, Improvised Explosive Device (IED) materials and assorted ammunition.
In the North East, troops of the Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS elements through intelligence-led ground and air operations. Several insurgents were neutralised, while logistics suppliers and informants were arrested, leading to the dismantling of key networks and improved security conditions for the resettlement of displaced persons.
Operational highlights included a major engagement on 30 January 2026 in the Timbuktu Triangle around Kimba in Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, where over 20 insurgents, including a notorious commander identified as Julaibib, were neutralised.
Similar operations in Gwoza LGA and Hong and Mubi North LGAs of Adamawa State resulted in further neutralisation of extremists, the arrest of kidnappers and the rescue of abducted victims.
Troops also uncovered and destroyed three major detention facilities within the Timbuktu Triangle, reportedly capable of holding about 300 captives. During the operation, more than 30 insurgents were neutralised, while 70 victims were rescued.
Additionally, over 700 Nigerian refugees were successfully repatriated from Cameroon through the Banki border in Borno State on 31 January 2026 under heavy security.
In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained offensive operations across Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kaduna, Niger states and the Federal Capital Territory. Several terrorists were neutralised, 19 suspects arrested, kidnapped victims rescued, and weapons, vehicles and livestock recovered.
In Kwara State, troops on joint patrol encountered terrorists at Garin Dandi in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where camps were destroyed and 10 abducted persons rescued. Following the recent attacks in Kaiama LGA, troops secured affected communities and commenced clearance and confidence-building patrols.
Across the North Central, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded operational successes in Plateau State, neutralising terrorists, arresting criminals and rescuing victims across several local government areas. Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE achieved notable gains in Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Nasarawa and Kwara states.
In Benue State, troops swiftly responded to attacks in Kwande Local Government Area, conducting aggressive clearance operations that disrupted hostile activities and restored stability, while efforts continued to track fleeing elements.
In the South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled major crude oil theft attempts, destroyed seven illegal refining sites and arrested suspects across Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom states. Arms and ammunition were also recovered during the operations.
Meanwhile, in the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA conducted coordinated operations across Abia, Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi states, arresting 23 terrorists, rescuing six kidnapped victims and recovering assorted weapons.
The Armed Forces reiterated their resolve to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. General Oluyede commended the courage, professionalism and resilience of troops, while appreciating Nigerians for their cooperation, timely intelligence and continued support.
He further urged citizens to remain vigilant, reinforcing the military’s public safety mantra: “See something, hear something, say something.”
