By Harriet Tornguvan
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has sustained coordinated nationwide operations aimed at curtailing the activities of terrorists and criminal elements, disrupting their logistics networks, and safeguarding communities across the country.
In a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, troops were commended for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to protecting lives, critical national infrastructure, and Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
According to the statement, troops of Operation HADIN KAI recorded significant successes in the North-East, engaging Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters in multiple encounters. On April 23, 2026, troops repelled a terrorist attack along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road in Yobe State, neutralising 21 insurgents and recovering a cache of weapons, including rifles, machine guns, rocket-propelled grenade equipment, and improvised explosives.
Earlier operations between April 18 and 22 saw troops ambush terrorist movements in Borno and Yobe States, neutralising several fighters and recovering arms and ammunition. Troops also rescued nine captives who escaped from the Mandara Mountains and thwarted attempts by insurgents to recapture them.
Additionally, security operatives intercepted a suspected logistics supplier transporting fuel concealed in sachet water bags, intended for terrorist groups in Yobe State. Another suspect linked to inciting public unrest and terrorist activities was apprehended in Borno State.
In the North-West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted offensives across Kaduna, Zamfara, and Katsina States, dismantling terrorist camps and intercepting logistics networks. Notably, troops rescued three kidnapped victims in Kaduna State and intercepted a courier transporting materials for improvised explosive devices (IEDs).
Similarly, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD recorded breakthroughs in Niger and Kwara States, where troops destroyed terrorist camps, dismantled illegal mining sites, and rescued kidnapped victims following coordinated operations with local vigilantes.
Operations under ENDURING PEACE in Plateau, Kaduna, Nasarawa, and Kogi States led to the interception of large quantities of ammunition, arrest of suspects, and the dismantling of illegal weapon manufacturing facilities. Troops also rescued victims of kidnapping incidents and neutralised attackers in several engagements.
In the North-Central region, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops rescued multiple kidnapped victims in Benue State, including 13 persons in a single operation, and recovered abandoned vehicles linked to criminal activities.
In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE troops intensified anti-criminal operations, rescuing kidnapped victims in Edo State and intercepting illegally refined petroleum products in Akwa Ibom State.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation UDO KA sustained pressure on the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), arresting key suspects in Enugu and Ebonyi States linked to attacks on security personnel and other criminal activities.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, commended troops for their dedication and sacrifices, while mourning the death of Corporal Abubakar Sadiq, who was killed during operations. He described the fallen soldier as a symbol of courage and service to the nation.
The Armed Forces urged the media to uphold responsible and fact-based reporting in support of national security, while calling on citizens to provide timely and credible information to security agencies.
The military reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operational momentum and ensuring the safety and stability of the country.
