By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Armed Forces have achieved major breakthroughs in ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations across the country, rescuing more than 100 kidnapped victims and seizing massive caches of arms and ammunition. The operations, conducted between October 3 and 9, 2025, spanned multiple theatres, from the North East and North West to the South South and South East, resulting in the neutralization of several insurgents, the arrest of numerous suspects, and the recovery of stolen goods and illicit funds.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, the coordinated offensives reflect the military’s renewed momentum in dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace nationwide.
In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI launched precision strikes on Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) enclaves in Borno and Adamawa states, eliminating several terrorists and rescuing three hostages. Nine suspected insurgents were arrested, while large quantities of weapons, vehicles, drugs, and petroleum products were recovered. The military also apprehended twelve suspected collaborators and informants across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, further crippling the insurgents’ logistics chain.
In the North West, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out successful rescue missions in Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto states, freeing 33 kidnapped civilians and arresting eight terrorists. The operations also led to the recovery of two motorcycles, several mobile phones, and ₦3 million in suspected ransom funds.
Across the North Central region, troops under Operation ENDURING PEACE responded to multiple distress calls in Plateau and Kaduna states, engaging extremist elements in fierce gun battles that led to the death of several assailants and the rescue of two kidnap victims. The troops also seized weapons, vehicles, and ₦1.3 million in cash. Likewise, Operation WHIRL STROKE forces arrested three suspects and freed two hostages during operations spanning Taraba, Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa states.
In the South South, Operation DELTA SAFE troops intensified the crackdown on oil theft, dismantling illegal refineries and recovering petroleum products worth more than ₦224 million. The operations led to the confiscation of over 22,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 5,500 litres of diesel, and 150,000 litres of petrol. Eight suspects were arrested, while one kidnapped victim was rescued in separate operations in Rivers and Delta states.
Meanwhile, in the South East, troops under Operation UDO KA arrested a notorious commander of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and Eastern Security Network (ESN), identified as Uche Okafor, also known as “Whipper,” alongside four of his accomplices in Imo and Abia states. Security forces also recovered weapons, vehicles, and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), while four additional suspects were apprehended in Anambra and Enugu states.
Major General Kangye reaffirmed that all operations were executed in strict compliance with international laws of armed conflict, with particular emphasis on the protection of civilian lives and property.
He commended the troops for their gallantry and professionalism, noting that their efforts continue to deny terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups the freedom to operate across Nigeria.
“The Armed Forces remain committed to denying freedom of action to terrorists, insurgents, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements,” General Kangye stated. “These operations demonstrate our unshakable determination to protect national security, preserve peace, and support economic stability.”
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its assurance to Nigerians that it will sustain the current tempo of operations until total peace and security are restored across all regions of the country.
