The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported the successful operations of Nigerian troops between January 1 and 31, during which at least 358 terrorists were eliminated, 431 suspects were arrested, and 249 kidnapped hostages were rescued. These operations were part of the military's ongoing efforts to counter terrorism and maintain national security across the country.
In a statement issued on Friday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, confirmed that the Nigerian military has sustained its momentum in combating terrorism, with troops remaining focused on restoring peace and security in various regions of the country. The statement highlighted the progress made during these operations and the significant successes achieved by the armed forces in January.
The military operations resulted in the recovery of 370 weapons and 4,972 rounds of ammunition. Among the seized weapons were 105 AK-47 rifles, 25 locally fabricated guns, 32 Dane guns, 23 pump-action guns, as well as other arms and ammunition. These significant hauls contribute to the military's efforts to dismantle the weaponry supply chains of terror groups operating in the region.
Regional Breakdown of Military Operations
North-East (Operation Hadin Kai): The troops neutralized 193 terrorists, arrested 89 suspects, and rescued 39 hostages. Notably, 95 Boko Haram/ISWAP (Islamic State in West Africa Province) fighters and their families surrendered to the military during this operation.North-Central (Operations Safe Haven & Whirl Stroke): Security forces killed 22 extremists, detained 149 suspects, and freed 73 hostages while also seizing a large cache of arms in the region.
North-West (Operation Fasan Yamma): The military eliminated 102 terrorists, arrested 134 individuals, and rescued 100 hostages. Significant arms and ammunition were recovered during the operation.
South-South (Operation Delta Safe): In the South-South region, the military arrested 59 individuals involved in oil theft, preventing an estimated ₦2 billion in losses. The operation led to the recovery of 2.7 million liters of stolen crude oil and various refined petroleum products.
South-East (Operation UDO KA): In the South-East, troops killed 41 terrorists, arrested 57 suspects, and rescued 37 hostages from captivity.
Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba concluded by reiterating the military’s unwavering commitment to ensuring national security and peace. He emphasized that the Nigerian Army will continue to focus on securing the lives and properties of citizens throughout the country, reinforcing the constitutional mandate of the armed forces in protecting the nation.