The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has announced extensive operational successes across all theatres of operation between 3 and 9 April 2026, highlighting sustained gains against terrorist groups and criminal networks nationwide, alongside the loss of personnel during a deadly encounter in Borno State.
In a press briefing by the Directorate of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja,the military said coordinated operations under various Joint Task Forces led to the disruption of terrorist activities, recovery of arms and ammunition, rescue of kidnapped civilians, and dismantling of criminal enclaves across the North East, North West, North Central, South East, and South South regions.
In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI maintained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS elements across Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, Taraba, and Gombe States. Several terrorist movements and logistics networks were disrupted, with troops engaging insurgents in multiple encounters, forcing withdrawals and recovering weapons, ammunition, and other materials used for operations.
However, the week was marked by a tragic development in Benisheikh, Kaga Local Government Area of Borno State, where troops came under a fierce terrorist attack on 9 April. The encounter resulted in the death of four personnel, including two officers and two soldiers. Among the fallen was Brigade Commander, Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, who was described as having led with exceptional courage and professionalism until his final moments on the battlefield.
In the North West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded significant breakthroughs, including the arrest of suspected terrorists and collaborators across Zamfara, Katsina, Kaduna, and Sokoto States. Several operations led to the rescue of kidnapped civilians, including worshippers abducted during an attack on a church in Kaduna State. Troops also repelled multiple attacks on rural communities and recovered arms and ammunition from fleeing criminals.
Operations in the North Central under Operations ENDURING PEACE and SAVANNAH SHIELD also recorded notable successes. Troops neutralised terrorists in Plateau and neighbouring states, rescued kidnapped victims, and dismantled hideouts in forested areas used by armed groups. Several firearms, motorcycles, and logistics items used by criminal elements were recovered during sustained clearance operations.
In the South East, troops under Operation UDO KA continued operations against criminal elements linked to proscribed groups, recovering improvised explosive devices in Abia State and arresting suspected couriers and collaborators in Anambra and Imo States. One armed suspect was neutralised during a coordinated assault on a criminal camp.
Similarly, in the South South, Operation DELTA SAFE recorded major gains against oil theft syndicates and armed criminal groups. Troops intercepted illegal petroleum activities, recovered large quantities of stolen crude oil and refined products, and arrested several suspects. Kidnap victims were also rescued following gun battles with armed criminals in Delta State, with arms, ammunition, and ransom money recovered from the scene.
The Defence Headquarters described the operations as a demonstration of sustained military pressure on criminal networks across the country, noting that while significant progress has been made, the threat remains active in some areas.
The military also paid tribute to personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, particularly those killed in Benisheikh, stating that their sacrifice represents the highest form of patriotism and will further strengthen ongoing counter-insurgency operations.
The AFN assured Nigerians that all theatres of operation will continue to receive intensified attention in order to consolidate gains and restore lasting peace and security nationwide.
