By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), in collaboration with hybrid forces and other security agencies, has continued its relentless offensive operations across all theatres in the country, with significant progress recorded in the ongoing fight against insurgency, terrorism, banditry, and criminal activities.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Major General Markus Kangye, Director, Defence Media Operations, on May 16, 2025. The statement emphasized that the intensified operations are part of deliberate efforts to ensure the safety of farming communities as the rainy season approaches, in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. The initiative aims to guarantee safe corridors for farmers to return to their fields and contribute to national food production and, by extension, food security.
According to Major General Kangye, “The AFN under the leadership of General CG Musa, OFR, is not negotiating the issues of national security and the welfare of its personnel. Our troops remain resolute and ever determined to safeguard the nation’s territorial integrity, defend national interests, and protect citizens from all forms of threats.”
Highlighting key developments from operations conducted between May 8 and 15, 2025, the statement noted that troops destroyed several terrorist camps, rescued kidnapped victims, and provided support for the rehabilitation of civilians affected by conflict. The AFN also strengthened partnerships with local and international stakeholders to enhance intelligence-sharing and operational efficiency. Local community cooperation was also acknowledged as vital to the success of intelligence-gathering efforts.
Troops operating in Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory arrested two wanted terrorist informants and logistics suppliers, identified as Zakari Abubakar and Aliyu Musa. An ammunition courier, Rufai Abdullahi, was also apprehended in Gwagwalada Area Council of the FCT. Recovered items included arms and ammunition, locally fabricated guns, motorcycles, mobile phones, tricycles, vehicles, and industrial equipment such as pumping and drilling machines.
In the South-South region, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft activities valued at over ₦103.9 million. Seized materials included 68,875 litres of stolen crude oil, 31,166 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and 2,250 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK). The troops discovered and destroyed 16 crude oil cooking ovens, 31 dugout pits, 19 boats, 34 storage tanks, 79 drums, and 18 illegal refining sites. Fifteen suspects were arrested, and additional items such as drilling machines, motorcycles, mobile phones, and vehicles were confiscated.
In the North-East, under Operation HADIN KAI, scores of ISWAP and JAS terrorists including adult males, females, and children surrendered to troops as operations intensified across Borno State. Offensive operations in Mafa, Dikwa, Gwoza, and Damboa LGAs led to the neutralization of terrorists and the rescue of 17 kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered assorted arms, ammunition, grenades, and magazines. Two terrorist logistics suppliers were arrested during targeted operations in Gwoza and Gubio on May 12.
In the North-West, under Operation FASAN YAMMA, troops engaged terrorists in Sokoto and Zamfara States, particularly in Sabon Birni, Isa, Goronyo, Tangaza, Anka, Gusau, Tsafe, Bungudu, and Shinkafi LGAs. These engagements resulted in the rescue of 42 kidnapped victims and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, and communications equipment. Additional operations in Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto States led to the rescue of over 87 kidnapped victims. The military’s medical team, alongside the Red Cross Nigeria, provided first aid to the rescued victims.
Troops also arrested two suspected drug peddlers in Gwadabawa LGA of Sokoto State on April 9. Items recovered included two bundles of cannabis, assorted illicit drugs, and ₦110,000.
In the North-Central zone, Operation SAFE HAVEN recorded gains in Plateau and Kaduna States. In Riyom, Qua’an Pan, Bokkos, and Jos South LGAs, troops neutralized extremists and arrested a suspected gunrunner with arms, ammunition, and ₦157,900. Anti-criminal operations in Jos South, Mangu, and Bassa LGAs led to the neutralization of more extremists and recovery of livestock, arms, and motorcycles.
Seven suspected criminals were arrested in operations across Jema’a and Kaura LGAs of Kaduna State and Bassa, Jos South, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom LGAs of Plateau State. Raids on gunrunning and kidnapper syndicates in Jema’a and Barkin Ladi led to the recovery of additional weapons and motorcycles.
In Benue, Kogi, Kwara, and Taraba States, under Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops conducted offensive and anti-kidnapping operations. Violent extremists were neutralized in Ado, Guma, Lokoja, Kabba, Lafiaji, and Wukari LGAs. Arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and mobile phones were recovered.
Three criminals were arrested in Kwande, Otukpo, Buruku, and Suleja LGAs during anti-criminality operations, while seven suspected extremists were captured in Logo, Guma, and Kaiama LGAs. Arms and motorcycles were seized, and all suspects were handed over to appropriate authorities for further action.
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE continued aggressive operations against crude oil theft and other criminal acts in the Niger Delta. In addition to massive seizures of stolen petroleum products, 15 suspects were apprehended. On May 12, troops rescued a wounded member of the Eiye Confraternity after a rival gang fight in Okpe LGA, Delta State, and took him to Orerokpe General Hospital for treatment.
Between May 8 and 12, nine suspected vandals and kidnappers were arrested in Delta, Bayelsa, and Rivers States, including in Uvwie, Udi, Isoko South, Oshimili North, Southern Ijaw, Ogbia, and Port Harcourt LGAs. All suspects were handed over to relevant authorities.
In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA sustained their operational momentum. From May 8 to 10, contact was made with terrorists in Okigwe, Mbano, and Njaba LGAs of Imo State. Several terrorists were neutralized, including one identified as Goodluck, also known as “Arrow.” Arms, ammunition, motorcycles, and vehicles were recovered.
From May 8 to 11, troops conducted anti-kidnapping operations in Ihiala and Oyi LGAs of Anambra State and Ukwa West LGA of Abia State. Although the criminals fled before arrival, troops recovered ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, ₦142,000 in cash, and over 3,000 litres of illegally refined crude oil. Further operations in conjunction with DSS operatives led to the arrest of two suspects in Ihiala and Igbo-Eze North LGAs of Anambra and Enugu States, respectively.
Major General Kangye concluded by reaffirming the Armed Forces’ commitment to upholding the law, respecting human rights, and protecting national security in line with global best practices. He urged Nigerians to continue supporting military efforts through the sharing of credible intelligence.
“The Armed Forces of Nigeria remain focused in our determination to defeat terrorism, banditry, and other criminalities in the country to ensure the safety of all Nigerians. We call on all law-abiding citizens to go about their daily activities without fear of intimidation. Together, we shall overcome,” the statement concluded.
