By Nkechi Eze
In a strong display of force, coordination, and strategic execution, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified their nationwide operations to dislodge terrorist groups, disrupt criminal networks, and reinforce public safety across all geopolitical zones of the country. According to an official signed statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, the military continues to demonstrate unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, upholding the rule of law, and creating a secure environment for socio-economic growth and national development.
“Our resolve to protect lives and property of our citizens, uphold the rule of law, and foster a safe and secure environment for socio-economic activities to thrive towards enhancing national development remain undaunted. Thus, we remain focused on our operations and dedicated to transparency as we ensure that we keep the public informed of our ongoing efforts to achieve the much-needed stability and security of our great nation,” the statement read.
Across various operational theatres, troops conducted a series of kinetic and non-kinetic operations between 11 and 19 June 2025. These efforts yielded significant outcomes, including the surrender of insurgents, arrests of terrorists’ collaborators, destruction of illegal refining sites, recovery of stolen crude, and the seizure of large caches of arms and ammunition.
In the North-East, under Operation HADIN KAI, troops neutralized insurgents and rescued kidnapped victims during operations in Konduga, Kukawa, Gwoza, Ngala, Kala Balge, Bama, and Maiduguri Metropolitan Council. Dozens of ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists, including adult males, females, and children, surrendered between 12 and 19 June. Seven logistics suppliers and collaborators were arrested in Kaga, Gwoza, Biu, and Ngala, and a range of items including arms, ammunition, motorcycles, mobile phones, and bicycles were recovered. Terrorist camps and equipment were also destroyed.
In the North-West, troops under Operation FASAN YAMMA clashed with terrorists in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Katsina States. Multiple insurgents were killed, three arrested, and three kidnapped victims rescued. On 14 June, in Danmusa LGA of Katsina State, scores of terrorists surrendered and voluntarily released 19 captives. Troops also acted on intelligence to thwart terrorists’ activities in Talata Mafara, Gusau, Maru, Shinkafi, and Isa LGAs, and arrested six collaborators.
Meanwhile, in the North-Central region, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN made contact with extremists in Bassa, Riyom, Jos North, and Sanga LGAs, killing several and arresting five. Five kidnapped victims were rescued, while arms and ammunition were recovered. A notorious kidnapper, Muhammed Isah, and six others were arrested in Zangon Kataf, Sanga, and Wase LGAs, with additional arrests made during counter-kidnapping patrols in Mangu, Barkin Ladi, and Jos South. Eight suspects were apprehended, and more victims rescued.
In Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops operating in Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and Kogi States killed extremists in Gwer East, Katsina Ala, and Takum, and recovered their weapons. Terrorists fled before troops arrived in some locations, but soldiers maintained area dominance to prevent future attacks. Six criminal suspects were arrested in Doma, Nasarawa, and Lokoja, with arms, ammunition, and phones seized.
In the oil-rich South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE recovered and destroyed 221,170 litres of stolen crude oil, 28,495 litres of illegally refined AGO, and 3,140 litres of PMS. A total of 46 crude oil cooking ovens, 26 dugout pits, 44 storage tanks, 23 boats, 52 drums, and 16 illegal refining sites were destroyed. Additionally, 27 suspects were arrested, and weapons, vehicles, pumping machines, drilling equipment, motorcycles, tricycles, and over ₦593,000 were recovered. Troops also arrested a drug peddler in Ethiope East LGA of Delta State and apprehended an armed robber in Oron, Akwa Ibom State. In separate sting operations, 10 suspects were arrested in Ethiope East, Udu, Boki, and Orhionmwon LGAs.
In the South-East, troops of Operation UDO KA sustained momentum against separatist elements. Between 11 and 17 June, they engaged extremists in Orlu, Okigwe, Ihiala, and Onitsha, neutralizing five and arresting two. Arms, ammunition, and a vehicle were recovered. Based on intelligence, troops arrested seven suspects in Isiala Ngwa and Ihiala, and in continued counter-kidnapping patrols, one criminal was apprehended in Mbaitoli, Ihiala, and Isi-Uzo LGAs of Imo, Anambra, and Enugu States.
Maj. Gen. Kangye commended the bravery and professionalism of troops across all operational zones. He reaffirmed the Defence Headquarters’ commitment to sustaining operational tempo and ensuring that all parts of the country enjoy peace and stability. He also emphasized the indispensable role of civilians in the success of ongoing operations, urging Nigerians to continue cooperating with security agencies by providing timely and credible information.
“As we move forward, we are committed to keeping the nation informed of our progress and future endeavors. Transparency and communication are key pillars of our operations, and we strive to maintain open channels of dialogue with the public,” he stated. “Your trust and confidence in our Armed Forces are deeply valued, and we assure you that we will continue to uphold the highest standards of service and professionalism in all that we do.” The statement concluded.
