By ZAKAA LAZARUS
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has reported sweeping operational successes across multiple regions of the country between April 3 and 9, 2026, highlighting intensified offensives against insurgents, bandits, and criminal networks.
In a statement signed by the director Defence media operations Major General Michael Onoja, the military disclosed that troops neutralised several terrorists, rescued kidnapped civilians, dismantled illegal operations, and recovered significant quantities of weapons and illicit materials across all theatres.
North-East: Fierce Battles, Commander Killed in Action
Under Operation HADIN KAI, troops sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements across Borno and surrounding states.
On April 4, advancing terrorists near Dikwa were repelled with heavy artillery strikes, forcing them to retreat. Similar offensives continued in Gwoza, where logistics elements were intercepted and materials recovered.
However, tragedy struck on April 9 in Benisheikh, Borno State, as troops came under heavy attack. The encounter led to the death of four personnel, including a senior commander, Brigadier General O.O. Braimah, who was killed while leading his troops.
North-West: Hostages Freed, Terror Networks Disrupted
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded multiple breakthroughs across Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, and Kaduna States.
Security forces:
Arrested suspected terrorists and collaborators
Recovered arms and ammunition
Rescued 31 hostages from a church attack in Kaduna
Freed 18 kidnapped victims, including infants, in Sokoto
In several encounters, terrorists were neutralised while attempting attacks on communities.
North-Central: Major Crackdowns, 21 Kidnap Victims Rescued
Operations under Operation ENDURING PEACE and Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD led to significant gains in Plateau, Benue, Kogi, and Kwara States.
Key highlights include:
Neutralisation of over a dozen terrorists in coordinated operations
Rescue of 21 kidnapped victims from forest camps
Destruction of multiple terrorist hideouts
Arrest of suspected masterminds behind killings and cattle rustling
Troops also repelled attacks and intercepted arms couriers across the region.
South-East: IEDs Recovered, Terror Camps Destroyed
Under Operation UDO KA, troops targeted criminal elements linked to IPOB/ESN.
Operations led to:
Recovery and safe detonation of four IEDs in Abia State
Arrest of suspects transporting ammunition
Destruction of a notorious terrorist camp in Imo State
South-South: Oil Theft Disrupted, Kidnap Victims Rescued
Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE intensified operations against oil theft and kidnapping in the Niger Delta.
Achievements include:
Seizure of stolen petroleum products and illegal refining equipment
Arrest of suspects with arms and weapons
Rescue of kidnapped victims in Delta State
Recovery of ransom money and firearms
Nation Mourns Fallen Heroes
The Defence Headquarters expressed deep sorrow over the loss of personnel in Borno State, describing their sacrifice as a testament to courage and patriotism.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General General Olufemi Oluyede extended condolences to the families, assuring Nigerians that ongoing operations will be intensified in honour of the fallen soldiers.
Commitment to National Security
The military reaffirmed its resolve to sustain aggressive operations nationwide, emphasizing that the recent successes reflect strengthened coordination and determination to restore peace and security.
“Their sacrifice will not weaken our resolve but strengthen it,” the statement noted.
