By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria recorded significant operational gains across all theatres in December, sustaining a high tempo of coordinated military actions that neutralised terrorists and criminals, rescued abducted persons, recovered large caches of arms and ammunition, and restored relative calm to several troubled communities across the country.
In an official statement signed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military disclosed that troops conducted joint, intelligence-led and offensive operations in line with their mandate to enhance national security and protect lives and property. The operations, he said, resulted in the disruption of hostile elements, degradation of their logistics and fighting capabilities, and the strengthening of public safety nationwide, even as troops maintained a robust presence throughout the festive period to safeguard citizens and critical infrastructure.
Across the theatres of operation, troops recovered substantial quantities of weapons, including automatic rifles, machine guns, Rocket Propelled Gun tubes, locally fabricated firearms and materials for making Improvised Explosive Devices, alongside caches of live ammunition and cartridges. These recoveries, according to the Defence Headquarters, further weakened criminal and terrorist networks operating in different parts of the country.
In the North East, troops of Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists, denying them freedom of action. A notable success was the repelling of an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base in Mairari, where terrorists attempted to breach the facility using two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices. Both VBIEDs were detected and neutralised before reaching the base, preventing casualties and base penetration. The operation resulted in multiple terrorist casualties and the recovery of weapons, ammunition, grenades, communication equipment, combat gear and medical supplies. Troops also discovered and safely detonated an IED along the Damboa–Komala axis, ensuring the safety of commuters, while an intelligence-led interception of a Lagos-registered vehicle on the Maiduguri–Bama Road led to the arrest of suspects conveying logistics for terrorists. Additional operations saw the arrest of collaborators and informants, the rescue of kidnapped victims, destruction of terrorist camps and the recovery of vehicles and motorcycles, paving the way for safer resettlement of displaced persons.
In the North West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma sustained offensive momentum across Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Niger States. During fierce engagements, several terrorists were neutralised, others apprehended and kidnapped victims rescued. Weapons, vehicles, livestock and household items were recovered during the operations. In a related development, troops intercepted a sum of ₦9 million in Kaduna State, which was being transported for ransom payment, an action that disrupted criminal financing while efforts continue to apprehend those behind the abduction.
Operations in the North Central zone under Operation Enduring Peace yielded further gains, particularly in Plateau and parts of Kaduna State, where troops responded swiftly to distress calls, neutralised terrorists, arrested criminal elements and rescued kidnapped victims. Similarly, under Operation Whirl Stroke, troops operating in Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi and Kwara States conducted raids on kidnappers’ hideouts, arrested suspects, rescued dozens of victims and recovered arms, ammunition and motorcycles. In another intelligence-driven operation, troops apprehended two impostors in Edo State who were impersonating the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, preventing potential criminal exploitation of the military hierarchy.
In the South-South, troops of Operation Delta Safe recorded notable successes against oil theft and related crimes. During the period, troops foiled oil theft estimated at over ₦15.6 million, recovering thousands of litres of stolen crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil and Premium Motor Spirit. Illegal refining sites were discovered and destroyed, while suspected oil thieves were arrested. Further operations and aerial surveillance across Bayelsa, Rivers and Delta States led to the arrest of suspects, including gunrunners found in possession of arms and ammunition.
In the South East, troops of Operation Udo Ka sustained offensive operations against criminal elements, including IPOB/ESN terrorists, leading to arrests in parts of Anambra State and continued pressure on hostile networks in the region.
The Defence Headquarters reiterated that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remain resolute in sustaining operational momentum, adapting to emerging threats and working closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders, while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and respect for human rights. The military also expressed appreciation for the cooperation of the public, noting that intelligence sharing remains critical to operational success.
In concluding the operational update, the Defence Headquarters conveyed the commendation of the Chief of Defence Staff to troops for their bravery and professionalism, particularly in the successful rescue of the remaining students of St Mary School in Papiri, Niger State. The operation, it noted, underscored the AFN’s unwavering commitment to national security and the protection of innocent lives.
The military also paid tribute to generations of veterans whose sacrifices and leadership laid the foundation of the modern Armed Forces of Nigeria, affirming that the progress and capabilities evident today are a direct result of their foresight, discipline and dedication. As the current generation carries this legacy forward, the AFN reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, integrity and service to the nation, calling on all Nigerians to embrace collective responsibility and support ongoing security efforts in the interest of lasting peace, stability and progress.
