By Harriet Tornguvan
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded significant operational successes across the country in February 2026, neutralising terrorists, rescuing hundreds of kidnapped victims, dismantling criminal networks and intensifying efforts to restore peace and security nationwide.
This was disclosed during the monthly operational briefing presented by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who reaffirmed the military’s commitment to transparency, accountability and sustained security operations across all theatres.
According to the briefing, troops maintained aggressive multi-domain operations throughout the month, combining intelligence-driven combat actions with humanitarian and community-based initiatives aimed at strengthening local resilience against insecurity.
Major General Onoja noted that the military adhered strictly to international humanitarian laws and rules of engagement while executing operations against terrorists, kidnappers, bandits and economic saboteurs threatening national stability.
Under Operation Hadin Kai, troops sustained intense offensives against Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) elements across Borno and Yobe States.
During the period, troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested 85 suspects, facilitated the surrender of 46 insurgents and their families, and rescued 104 kidnapped victims. Large quantities of arms, ammunition and logistics equipment were also recovered.
A major engagement occurred in Kukawa Local Government Area of Borno State where troops repelled a coordinated terrorist attack involving gun trucks, motorcycles and drones. Security forces also intercepted a vehicle transporting supplies meant for insurgents and seized 460 bags of fertiliser suspected to be destined for terrorist activities in Yobe State.
Operations were intensified in Abadam, Bama, Damboa, Damaturu and Geidam areas, while precision air and ground assaults destroyed terrorist camps and infiltration routes along border corridors.
The statement continued that in the North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma recorded notable gains across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States. Troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested 36 suspects and rescued 251 kidnapped victims.
Among the highlights was the rescue of 21 abducted persons in Musawa Local Government Area of Katsina State. Military authorities also reported the interception of arms supplies and increased community cooperation, which has encouraged voluntary disarmament in some locations.
The introduction of agro-security patrols to safeguard farmlands and herders, alongside the donation of 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers by the Zamfara State Government, further enhanced operational response capabilities.
Under Operation Savannah Shield, troops conducted intelligence-led offensives in Kwara and Niger States, neutralising terrorists and rescuing hostages during fierce engagements along the Kainji–Kwimo road axis. Fighting patrols were expanded into forested criminal hideouts to deny terrorists safe havens.
Similarly, Operation Enduring Peace in Plateau State tackled kidnapping, terrorism and communal clashes. Troops arrested 29 criminals, rescued 22 hostages and restored calm in conflict-prone communities through rapid interventions and dominance patrols. Youth empowerment and conflict-resolution initiatives were also introduced to promote lasting peace.
Meanwhile, Operation Whirl Stroke, covering Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa and parts of Kogi States, recorded the arrest of 49 suspects and rescue of 32 hostages. The arrest of a key terrorist commander in Taraba State led to the recovery of weapons, ammunition and over N2.4 million suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities.
In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe intensified anti-oil theft operations, arresting 59 suspects, destroying 32 illegal refining sites and recovering over 144,000 litres of stolen crude oil alongside 31,601 litres of Automotive Gas Oil.
Troops also uncovered illegal weapons fabrication activities in Cross River State following intelligence-led raids conducted in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), leading to the recovery of locally fabricated firearms and ammunition.
In the South-East Operations under Operation Udo Ka, troops intensified operations against dissident groups, including the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Security forces arrested 54 suspects, rescued kidnapped victims and dismantled a suspected logistics hub used by the group. Several militants were neutralised during clearance operations after engaging troops in a firefight.
The Defence Headquarters stated that coordinated land, air and maritime operations across all regions have significantly degraded criminal and terrorist capabilities while enabling the gradual restoration of civil authority in affected communities.
The military leadership commended Nigerians for providing credible intelligence and urged citizens to remain vigilant by reporting suspicious activities through emergency channels.
As Ramadan and Lent commence, the Armed Forces called for peaceful observances and continued cooperation between citizens and security agencies.
The AFN reaffirmed its resolve to sustain ongoing operations, consolidate gains and ensure a secure environment conducive to national development.
Major General Onoja expressed appreciation to troops, security partners, civil society organisations and the media for their continued support, stressing that collective national effort remains key to overcoming security challenges.
