An in-depth analysis of the Nigerian military’s latest operational successes reveals a multi-theatre strategy against diverse security threats, from terrorism in the north to oil theft in the south.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has provided a comprehensive operational update detailing significant gains made by the Armed Forces of Nigeria across the country in a recent one-week period. According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major-General Michael Onoja, these coordinated efforts have resulted in the neutralization of scores of terrorists, the arrest of 61 suspects, and the rescue of 69 kidnapped victims. This report underscores the military’s sustained, multi-front campaign to degrade criminal networks and restore security.
Decisive Action in the North-East: Degrading Terrorist Capabilities
In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI maintained intense pressure on factions of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and the Jamā’at Ahl as-Sunnah lid-Da’wah wa’l-Jihād (JAS). A critical success involved repelling an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base in Mairari. The troops’ vigilance led to the detection and neutralization of two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs)—a deadly tactic often used to breach defensive positions. This action caused multiple terrorist casualties and led to the recovery of a cache of arms, ammunition, motorcycles, communication gear, and medical supplies, directly impairing the group’s operational and logistical chain.
Further efforts to secure the region included the discovery and safe detonation of an IED on the Damboa–Komala axis, preventing potential civilian and military casualties. The arrest of nine individuals suspected of being collaborators or logistics suppliers highlights a strategic shift towards targeting the enablers of terrorism, which is crucial for dismantling support networks. The rescue of three kidnapped victims and the facilitation of displaced persons’ resettlement point to the operation’s dual focus on both kinetic action and humanitarian outcomes.
Multi-State Offensives in the North-West and North-Central
In the North-West, plagued by banditry and kidnapping, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted sustained offensives across Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, and Niger States. These operations neutralized several terrorists and led to eight arrests and the rescue of four victims. A particularly notable interception occurred at Kadage in Kaduna State, where troops seized N9 million suspected to be ransom payment for abducted children. This action not only deprives criminal groups of funding but also provides intelligence to trace and apprehend the perpetrators, disrupting the lucrative kidnapping economy.
The North-Central region saw coordinated efforts by Operations ENDURING PEACE and WHIRL STROKE. Troops neutralized terrorists, arrested 24 criminals (including 16 general suspects and 8 specialized kidnappers), and achieved a major humanitarian victory by rescuing a total of 62 kidnapped victims from various hideouts in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, and Kwara States. The scale of these rescues suggests successful intelligence-driven raids on hostage-holding locations. A separate, concerning development was the arrest of two impostors in Edo State for impersonating the Chief of Army Staff—a reminder of the evolving challenges of fraud and impersonation that can undermine public trust.
Securing Economic and Political Stability in the South
In the oil-rich South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE focused on economic security, foiling oil theft valued at over N15.6 million. The apprehension of 14 suspects, including gunrunners, and the destruction of illegal refining sites in Bayelsa, Delta, and Rivers States are critical for protecting national revenue and preventing the environmental devastation caused by bunkering. These sites often fund broader criminal enterprises and insurgencies.
In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA apprehended four suspects linked to the banned Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN). This indicates ongoing operations to address secessionist agitation and related violence in the region.
Strategic Context and the Path Forward
Major-General Onoja reaffirmed the military’s resolve to sustain this operational momentum, protect civilians, and adapt to evolving asymmetric threats. He specifically commended troops for their bravery and professionalism, notably in the successful rescue of abducted students in Niger State—an operation that resonates deeply with the public.
This weekly update illustrates the Nigerian military’s “clear, hold, and build” approach across six geopolitical zones. However, it also implicitly highlights the pervasive nature of the country’s security challenges, which range from terrorism and banditry to oil theft and separatist violence. The DHQ’s call for continued public support and collective responsibility is a recognition that military action alone cannot guarantee lasting peace. Sustainable stability will require complementary efforts in governance, economic development, and community engagement to address the root causes of instability.
The reported successes represent tactical victories in a long-term strategic contest. The recovery of weapons, disruption of financing, and rescue of victims are measurable gains that contribute to degrading adversarial capabilities and restoring a sense of security in affected communities.
Source: Defence Headquarters Operational Update, as presented by Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja. (Edited for context and analysis).
