By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have sustained an aggressive nationwide operational tempo, neutralising scores of terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims and dismantling criminal networks across multiple theatres between 9 and 13 February 2026.
In an official statement signed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the Defence Headquarters disclosed that troops, in close collaboration with relevant security and intelligence agencies, intensified both kinetic and non-kinetic operations in furtherance of national security objectives.
According to him, the Armed Forces remain resolute in executing their constitutional mandate with deliberate focus on safeguarding the lives and welfare of personnel while upholding professionalism, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
“Defence Headquarters recognises the considerable public interest in ongoing military operations and appreciates the role of the media in informing the populace. Accordingly, we are committed to providing timely, accurate and transparent information on our activities as operations evolve across all operational theatres,” he stated.
He explained that current operations are designed to neutralise identified threats, protect citizens and restore normalcy in affected areas, thereby creating a secure environment that supports economic activities, social development and lasting peace nationwide.
During the period under review, troops recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, including automatic weapons, Rocket Propelled Grenade tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms and Improvised Explosive Device materials. Caches of live cartridges and assorted ammunition were also seized.
In the North East, troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation HADIN KAI sustained operational momentum, effectively denying Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists freedom of action across the theatre. Ground forces working in close coordination with the Air Component, hybrid forces and local security groups conducted intelligence-driven operations that led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, the arrest of informants and logistics suppliers, and the recovery of arms and equipment. The sustained pressure, according to Defence Headquarters, has facilitated safer resettlement of displaced persons.
Offensive operations were conducted in Bama, Biu, Chibok, Damboa, Guzamala, Jere, Konduga, Mafa and Mobbar Local Government Areas of Borno State, Damaturu LGA of Yobe State, as well as Gombi and Maiha LGAs of Adamawa State. Scores of terrorists were neutralised, eight were arrested and 11 kidnapped victims rescued, while recovered weapons remain in troops’ custody for further action.
In a related development, troops ambushed terrorists at their enclave in Komala Village, Jere LGA of Borno State on 9 February 2026, neutralising dozens of fighters and recovering weapons, motorcycles, bicycles and other logistics items.
Air interdiction missions conducted by the Air Component in conjunction with Nigerian Army Aviation also yielded results. During reconnaissance operations across parts of Borno State, about seven terrorists were trailed to Chongolo Kura in Bama LGA, while three others were sighted entering an enclave at Abbagajere Village in Damboa LGA. Precision strikes were executed after target acquisition, with battle damage assessments confirming the neutralisation of terrorists and destruction of their structures.
In the North West, troops of the Joint Task Force North West Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained pressure on terrorist elements through coordinated offensives in Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Maru and Tsafe LGAs of Zamfara State, as well as Doguwa in Kano State and Kafur in Katsina State. Several terrorists were neutralised, four apprehended and two kidnapped victims rescued. Weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock were also recovered.
Across the North Central zone, troops under Joint Task Force North Central Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD conducted operations in Borgu and Mokwa LGAs of Niger State, and Baruten, Edu and Ifelodun LGAs of Kwara State, dislodging terrorist checkpoints and hibernation areas while responding swiftly to intelligence on their movements.
Similarly, personnel of Joint Task Force North Central Operation ENDURING PEACE responded to distress calls and carried out offensive operations in Jos North, Mangu, Riyom and Wase LGAs of Plateau State, as well as Jama’a and Kaura LGAs of Kaduna State. Several terrorists were neutralised, a wanted kidnapper identified as Kamaru Chawai and five others were arrested, and four kidnapped victims rescued. Arms and ammunition were also recovered.
Troops of Joint Task Force North Central Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded notable successes in Gwer West, Kwande and Otukpo LGAs of Benue State, and Ardo Kola and Wukari LGAs of Taraba State. They also foiled kidnapping activities in Lokoja, Okene and Yagba West LGAs of Kogi State. Eleven terrorists were arrested and nine kidnapped victims rescued. During fighting patrols in Adonkolo and Kakanda forests in Lokoja, troops captured Batijjo’s Camp, recovered a cache of arms and ammunition and freed over 13 kidnapped victims.
In the South-South, troops of Joint Task Force South-South Operation DELTA SAFE thwarted significant oil theft activities, dismantled nine illegal refining sites and arrested 11 oil thieves and other criminals. Arms and ammunition were also recovered. Between 8 and 12 February 2026, offensive operations in Ahoada and Etche LGAs of Rivers State and Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State led to the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN terrorist identified as Eze Adeire, alias Ikuku, alongside four others. A suspected gunrunner was also apprehended in Ahoada LGA with several locally fabricated rifles.
In the South East, troops of Joint Task Force South East Operation UDO KA conducted extensive operations across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu and Imo states. A major cordon and search mission in forested areas of Amasiri, Ezekwu Ohaechara and Obi communities in Afikpo North and Afikpo South LGAs of Ebonyi State resulted in the arrest of eight terrorists and the recovery of arms and ammunition.
In his concluding remarks, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, commended the courage, professionalism and dedication of troops across all theatres. He reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ unwavering resolve to deny terrorists and criminal elements freedom of action anywhere in the country.
He assured Nigerians of sustained commitment to intensifying operations, strengthening inter-agency collaboration and adapting strategies to address emerging security challenges, stressing that continued public support and cooperation remain vital to securing a peaceful and prosperous nation.
