By Nkechi Eze
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded significant operational gains across multiple theatres between 17 and 23 April 2026, intensifying coordinated offensives against terrorist and criminal elements while safeguarding communities and critical infrastructure.
In an official signed statement, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed that troops demonstrated professionalism, resilience, and unwavering commitment in ongoing operations nationwide, yielding notable successes against insurgents, bandits, and other criminal networks.
In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS fighters through ambushes, fighting patrols, and defensive operations. Several terrorists were neutralised in engagements across Borno and Yobe States, including a major confrontation along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road where troops repelled an attack and killed 21 insurgents. A cache of arms and ammunition, including machine guns, RPG equipment, and improvised explosives, was recovered. Troops also rescued nine captives who escaped from terrorist enclaves in the Mandara Mountains and thwarted attempts by insurgents to recapture them. Additionally, a logistics supplier conveying fuel to terrorists was arrested in Geidam, alongside other suspects linked to terrorist activities.
In the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA troops carried out clearance and ambush operations across Kaduna, Zamfara, and surrounding states, neutralising terrorists, dismantling camps, and intercepting logistics couriers transporting materials for improvised explosive devices. Troops also successfully rescued kidnapped victims in Kaduna State following swift response to distress calls.
Operations in the North Central under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD and ENDURING PEACE led to the arrest of multiple suspected terrorists and collaborators, destruction of criminal hideouts and illegal mining sites, and recovery of weapons and ammunition. Troops also rescued kidnapped victims in Kwara and Benue States, intercepted large consignments of ammunition in transit, and disrupted weapon fabrication networks in Plateau State. Several suspects linked to past violent crimes, including the killing of security personnel, were apprehended during targeted operations.
Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops conducted rescue missions in Benue and Kogi States, freeing kidnapped victims and dismantling criminal camps. In one instance, troops forced kidnappers to abandon victims along the Makurdi–Otukpo Road, while additional rescue operations led to the safe recovery of 13 abducted persons in Ohimini Local Government Area.
In the South-South region, Operation DELTA SAFE troops intensified anti-crime and anti-oil theft operations, rescuing kidnapped victims in Edo State and recovering large quantities of illegally refined petroleum products in Akwa Ibom State. Clearance operations in forested areas also led to the arrest of suspected criminals and recovery of weapons and hard drugs.
Meanwhile, troops of Operation UDO KA in the South East recorded breakthroughs against the proscribed IPOB/ESN network, arresting key suspects linked to attacks on security personnel and other violent crimes. High-profile arrests were made in Enugu and Ebonyi States, with suspects handed over to appropriate authorities for further investigation.
Major General Onoja noted that the Armed Forces remain resolute in sustaining operational momentum while adhering strictly to the laws of armed conflict and rules of engagement. He conveyed the condolences of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, to the family and colleagues of a fallen soldier, Corporal Abubakar Sadiq, who was killed in action, describing his sacrifice as a testament to the courage and dedication of Nigerian troops.
The Defence Headquarters urged the media to uphold responsible and factual reporting in support of national security, while encouraging citizens to provide timely and credible intelligence to security agencies as part of a collective effort to enhance safety and stability across the country.
