The Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded significant operational gains across various theatres of operation between April 10 and 16, 2026, intensifying pressure on terrorist groups, kidnappers, and other criminal elements nationwide.
According to the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, troops operating under various Joint Task Forces neutralised terrorists, arrested numerous suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and intercepted arms, ammunition, and logistics supplies meant for criminal networks.
In the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained aggressive operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS terrorists, leading to the arrest of suspected terrorist collaborators in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. A major breakthrough was recorded with the interception of a truck carrying a large consignment of concealed medical supplies allegedly destined for terrorist elements in Yobe State.
Troops also conducted clearance operations across forests spanning Bauchi, Plateau, and Taraba states, dismantling terrorist camps and arresting associates linked to a notorious kingpin.
Under Operation FANSAN YAMMA in the North West, troops disrupted terrorist logistics, intercepted improvised explosive device-making materials in Jigawa State, and arrested suspected informants and insurgents in Kaduna and Kebbi states. Operations in Katsina and Zamfara also saw troops repel attacks and disrupt terrorist movements.
In the North Central, troops under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD, ENDURING PEACE, and WHIRL STROKE intensified counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping missions across Niger, Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi states. The operations led to multiple rescues of kidnapped victims, arrests of suspected kidnappers, recovery of motorcycles, weapons, and ammunition, as well as the neutralisation of members of a kidnapping syndicate linked to earlier abduction incidents.
In the South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE conducted targeted security operations in Edo and Cross River states, arresting suspects and recovering motorcycles and ammunition.
Similarly, in the South East, troops of Operation UDO KA sustained pressure on criminal elements linked to IPOB/ESN, neutralising one armed operative in Anambra State and recovering weapons, motorcycles, and communication devices. In Enugu State, troops, acting on intelligence, tracked ransom proceeds, arrested suspects linked to kidnapping activities, and recovered cash and a pump-action rifle.
Defence Headquarters said the operational outcomes underscored the military’s determination to degrade criminal and terrorist infrastructure while restoring peace and security across affected communities.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General OO Oluyede, while commending troops for their professionalism and courage, charged personnel to sustain the momentum of operations and ensure all terrorist enclaves are dismantled in line with the Rules of Engagement and international humanitarian law.
He also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support and reassured citizens of the Armed Forces’ commitment to safeguarding lives and securing the country.
