By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres between March 30 and April 2, 2026, intensifying pressure on terrorists groups and criminal networks nationwide.
Under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Director of Defence Media Operations DMO, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed that troops sustained coordinated counter-terrorism and security operations, leading to the neutralisation of several террористs, arrest of suspects, rescue of kidnapped civilians, and disruption of illegal economic activities.
North East Operations
In the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI engaged terrorists elements linked to Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province across Borno and Adamawa States.
Operations in Gwoza Local Government Area led to the interception of terrorists attempting to cross into key locations, forcing them to abandon weapons and logistics. Troops also neutralised insurgents during patrols and rescued civilians abducted along the Buratai–Kamuya Road after a swift response.
In Bama LGA, an ambush operation resulted in the killing of eight terrorists and interception of their logistics suppliers. Additionally, troops arrested suspected collaborators and a notorious kidnapper linked to attacks in Bauchi State. A separate operation led to the interception of an arms courier with 700 rounds of ammunition.
North West Operations
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded successes across Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Sokoto States. Security forces responded to terrorists attacks on commuters and farmers, rescuing victims and forcing attackers to retreat.
In coordinated patrols, troops neutralised insurgents, destroyed motorcycles used for operations, and dismantled terrorists hideouts. Additional operations led to the recovery of weapons and the rescue of abducted civilians, although some victims remain unaccounted for due to operational constraints.
North Central Operations
Under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, troops thwarted kidnapping attempts in Kwara State, arresting suspects and recovering firearms. Meanwhile, Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau State led to the arrest of individuals linked to a high-profile community killing and the rescue of a kidnapped woman abandoned by fleeing attackers.
South-South Operations
In the Niger Delta region, Operation DELTA SAFE targeted economic sabotage. Troops intercepted illegal miners transporting suspected “illegally extracted.” black sand in Akwa Ibom State.
In Rivers State, security forces uncovered an illegal oil refining site, recovering approximately 10,000 litres of stolen crude oil and dismantling equipment used in the illegal operations
South East Operations
Troops of Operation UDO KA intensified operations against members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN).
Security forces arrested several suspects, including individuals providing medical support to terrorists camps in Anambra State. Another high-profile suspect was apprehended in Ogun State, marking a significant disruption of the group’s support network.
Across all theatres, the military reported:
Dozens of terrorists neutralised
Over 20 suspects arrested, including collaborators and logistics suppliers
Multiple kidnapped civilians rescued
Significant quantities of arms, ammunition, recovered
The Chief of Defence Staff commended troops for their professionalism and urged continued vigilance in ongoing operations. He also called on Nigerians to support security agencies with credible intelligence to strengthen national security efforts.
“The Armed Forces will not relent in its constitutional duty to protect the sovereignty of the nation and ensure the safety of all citizens,” the statement said.
The AFN reassured the public of its commitment to safeguarding the Nigeria and maintaining pressure on all threats to national security.
