By Harriet Tornguvan
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded major operational successes across several theatres of operation nationwide, neutralising scores of terrorists, rescuing kidnapped civilians, recovering arms and ammunition, and dismantling criminal networks in ongoing efforts to restore peace and security across the country.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who said troops sustained offensive and clearance operations in line with their constitutional mandate to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protect lives and property.
According to the statement, troops of Operation HADIN KAI maintained sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists across Adamawa, Borno, Taraba and Yobe states. In Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, troops successfully carried out a night ambush on 30 April 2026, neutralising four terrorists and recovering an AK-47 rifle with ammunition.
Troops also rescued six women and children abducted during a terrorist raid on Ngoshe community in Gwoza LGA, while several suspected terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers were arrested in separate operations in Yobe and Borno states.
In another major operation, troops conducted a three-pronged offensive in Damboa LGA of Borno State, clearing several communities including Dusu, Multe, Hawan Burum, Abala, Kimba and Sabon Gari. During the operation, two terrorists were neutralised, one captured alive, while weapons and motorcycles were recovered.
The military further disclosed that troops repelled a coordinated ISWAP attack on troops’ location in Magumeri, Borno State, on 7 May 2026. The terrorists attempted to infiltrate the base under poor visibility but were decisively defeated by troops, supported by superior firepower. Several terrorists were killed, while troops recovered PKT anti-aircraft guns, AK-47 rifles and magazines. Two soldiers, however, lost their lives during the fierce encounter.
In the North West, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA intensified operations against bandits and armed groups across Katsina and Zamfara states. Several terrorists were neutralised in Kankia, Kankara and Dutsinma LGAs of Katsina State, with troops recovering motorcycles, rifles, phones and cash.
Similarly, troops repelled attacks on Forward Operating Base Bagega in Zamfara State after terrorists launched an assault on the base. Reinforcements and air support from Super Tucano aircraft were deployed, leading to the neutralisation of additional terrorists and recovery of weapons and motorcycles. One soldier was reportedly killed during the operation.
In the North Central region, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded breakthroughs against kidnapping syndicates and illegal arms manufacturers operating across Plateau, Nasarawa and the Federal Capital Territory.
The military said troops raided illegal weapons production sites in Vom, Jos South LGA of Plateau State, arresting five suspects involved in the fabrication of firearms. Recovered items included nine fabricated AK-47 rifles, weapon components and industrial equipment used for illegal arms production.
Troops also intercepted a suspect along the Abaji-Kwali road in Abuja with 250 rounds of concealed ammunition, while kidnappers were arrested and victims rescued in separate operations across Nasarawa and Kaduna states.
In Kwara State, troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD rescued four kidnapped victims in Edu LGA following a distress call and arrested seven suspected kidnappers in Baruten LGA. Troops also neutralised terrorists during an ambush in Ifelodun LGA and recovered rifles and communication devices.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded successes in Benue and Kogi states, rescuing abducted victims and dismantling criminal hideouts. Troops rescued victims abducted from the Daarul-Kitab Islamic Orphanage in Kogi State and intercepted an ammunition courier transporting 500 rounds of ammunition concealed inside a bag of maize.
In Edo State, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE rescued kidnap victims and arrested several suspected kidnappers during coordinated operations in Owan East and Esan Southeast LGAs. Troops also foiled a kidnap attempt along the Okpella-Okene highway and rescued five victims.
Operations against IPOB/ESN elements also continued in the South-East under Operation UDO KA. Troops arrested a suspected gunrunner in Arochukwu LGA of Abia State who was found in possession of illegal Biafran currency notes.
The Defence Headquarters stated that the operational achievements demonstrated the resolve and professionalism of the Armed Forces in combating terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the country.
The statement added that despite the successes recorded, the military acknowledged the pains suffered by victims of insecurity and reaffirmed its commitment to restoring lasting peace nationwide.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria will never abandon Nigerians. We will not stand down until every Nigerian can live freely, safely and with dignity,” the statement added.
