Nigerian military forces have reported significant success in recent land, air, and maritime operations against criminal groups across the country. Over the past week, troops neutralized 69 terrorists, rescued 363 kidnapped individuals, and apprehended 49 suspects. During anti-sabotage efforts, military personnel dismantled three illegal refineries, destroyed 12 storage pits, and recovered approximately 251,600 litres of stolen crude oil. Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, confirmed these figures while noting that one soldier died in action and another was injured.
Operations spanned multiple regions. In the North East, troops from Operation Hadin Kai intercepted several terrorists, resulting in the rescue of 31 people near Biu and four others near Gwoza. Logistics suppliers and informants were also apprehended in Borno and Adamawa States. Meanwhile, Operation Fansan Yamma in the North West conducted a precise air strike in Niger State, neutralizing numerous militants who had gathered with motorcycles. The unit also processed several individuals intercepted while traveling, handing suspected terrorists over to state security services.
In the North Central zone, Operation Savanna Shield achieved a notable milestone by rescuing 308 individuals from the Kainji Lake National Park in Niger State. Troops from Operation Whirl Stroke also conducted raids in Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi States, recovering weapons and rescuing victims from kidnappers. In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe focused on maritime security, uncovering large quantities of stolen petroleum products in Rivers and Delta States. Finally, Operation Udoka in the South East arrested key militant suspects following investigations into an earlier ambush on military personnel and seized caches of weapons, including machine guns.
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, praised the troops for their continued dedication and emphasized the importance of ongoing collaboration with security agencies and local stakeholders. He urged the public to continue assisting security forces with intelligence to help maintain national peace and security.
