By Nkechi Eze
Troops of Sector 2, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have stepped up aggressive operations against terrorist enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi States, reinforcing efforts to protect communities and neutralize armed groups in the North West.
In an official statement, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division/Nigerian Army, Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, reported that on 25 March 2026, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion VII engaged terrorists in two separate encounters at Magonho Forest in Sokoto State, eliminating three bandits and recovering three AK-47 rifles along with motorcycles.
Meanwhile, in Zamfara State, troops successfully executed an ambush along the Gada Maya–Makakari Village road, neutralizing two terrorists and forcing others to flee. The operation resulted in the seizure of one AK-47 rifle, three magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, a Baofeng radio, two mobile phones, and a motorcycle. Later, when terrorists attacked Kaida Village in retaliation, troops swiftly countered, neutralizing another terrorist and recovering an additional AK-47 rifle.
Acting on credible intelligence, the troops also conducted a clearance operation in Dutsi Village, Moriki District, Zurmi Local Government Area, compelling terrorists to abandon one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and 26 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition as they fled under sustained military pressure.
In Kebbi State, troops acting on information about the Lakurawa Terrorist Group’s presence in Giron Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area, were ambushed 500 meters from the village. Reinforcements and combat enablers were deployed to the area, and intelligence-led operations to track and neutralize fleeing terrorists are ongoing.
Lieutenant Colonel Osoba affirmed that 8 Division/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains committed to dominating the operational space, degrading terrorist capabilities, and ensuring the safety of law-abiding citizens. He noted that troop morale is high, and their actions continue to reflect the Nigerian Army’s core values of courage, professionalism, and service to the nation.
The Division will sustain intelligence-driven and coordinated operations in line with the strategic directives of the Chief of Army Staff to secure communities across the North West.
