By Harriet Tornguvan
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres of operation, reinforcing its ongoing campaign against terrorism, insurgency, and other criminal activities nationwide.
Under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, troops intensified coordinated offensives, leveraging intelligence driven operations and enhanced inter-agency collaboration to neutralise threats, dismantle criminal networks, and recover arms and illicit materials.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the sustained military pressure has significantly degraded the operational capacity of terrorist groups and restored confidence in affected communities.
In the North-East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI maintained relentless pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS elements across Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and neighbouring states.
Several suspected informants, logistics suppliers, and arms dealers were arrested during targeted operations, with weapons and materials recovered. Notable interceptions included the arrest of a suspected terrorist spy in Maiduguri and multiple recoveries of AK-47 rifles and related equipment across the theatre.
Similarly, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded successes across the North-West, conducting precision strikes and ambush operations in Sokoto, Zamfara, and Katsina States. The operations led to the neutralisation of terrorists, destruction of support structures, and the rescue of kidnapped victims, including a local government official in Kano State. Security operations in Kebbi also facilitated the safe return of displaced residents and the resumption of farming activities.
In the North-Central region, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD troops intensified counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping efforts across Kwara and Niger States. Following an attack on a worship centre in Kwara, troops swiftly responded, rescuing some abducted victims while pursuing the perpetrators.
Additional operations led to the arrest of suspects linked to explosives movement and the disruption of illegal mining activities involving foreign nationals.
Further gains were recorded in Plateau, Kogi, Benue, and Edo States, where troops carried out rescue missions, neutralised criminal elements, and dismantled kidnapping syndicates. Multiple victims were rescued in separate operations, while suspects were apprehended with weapons and illicit substances.
Operation WHIRL STROKE also recorded breakthroughs in Benue and surrounding states, addressing farmer-herder conflicts and criminality. Troops neutralised suspects, recovered locally fabricated weapons, and handed over arrested individuals to relevant authorities for prosecution.
In the Niger Delta, Operation DELTA SAFE sustained its crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining.
Troops discovered and dismantled illegal refining sites in Rivers State, recovering thousands of litres of stolen crude and refined products. Arrests were also made in connection with kidnapping and illegal oil transportation activities.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation UDO KA continued to target criminal elements linked to the proscribed IPOB and ESN in the South-East. Clearance operations led to the discovery and safe detonation of improvised explosive devices, as well as the destruction of major illegal refining infrastructure.
The Defence Headquarters noted that the cumulative achievements underscore improved synergy between the military, other security agencies, and local stakeholders in tackling Nigeria’s complex security challenges.
General Oluyede commended troops for their dedication and sacrifice, reaffirming the military’s commitment to sustaining offensive operations until all threats to national security are eliminated. He also urged citizens to remain vigilant and continue providing credible intelligence to support ongoing efforts.
The AFN reiterated its resolve to maintain operational dominance and ensure the safety and security of all Nigerians.
