The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced major operational gains recorded by troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria across various theatres of operation within the week ending October 9, 2025.
Speaking during the weekly media briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, said troops, in collaboration with other security agencies, intensified both kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at tackling terrorism, banditry, oil theft, and other criminal activities across the country.
According to him, the operations were designed to enhance national security, promote stability, and protect Nigeria’s strategic interests. He emphasized that the Armed Forces remain committed to safeguarding citizens and maintaining a secure environment for social and economic activities to thrive, while minimizing collateral damage and ensuring civilian safety.
North East: Troops Sustain Momentum Against Terrorists
In the North East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI maintained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists through coordinated ground and air offensives in Bama, Damboa, Konduga, Gwoza, Ngala, and Kukawa Local Government Areas of Borno State, as well as parts of Adamawa State.
During the operations, several terrorists were neutralized, nine were arrested, and three kidnapped victims were rescued. Troops also recovered arms, ammunition, and destroyed terrorists’ camps.
Additionally, between October 4 and 6, twelve collaborators, informants, and logistics suppliers linked to terrorist groups were apprehended across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. Recovered items included vehicles, drugs, fuel, and other logistics materials.
North West: 33 Kidnap Victims Rescued, Terrorists Neutralized
Troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained aggressive operations across Kaduna, Kebbi, Zamfara, Katsina, and Sokoto States. Between October 3 and 8, troops engaged bandits in multiple encounters, killing several terrorists, arresting eight, and rescuing 33 kidnapped victims.
Recovered items included two new motorcycles, mobile phones, and ₦3 million, suspected to have been ransom money. Investigations are ongoing.
North Central: Terrorists, Criminal Gangs Crushed
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE and Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded similar successes in the North Central region.
In Plateau, Kaduna, Taraba, Benue, Kogi, and Nasarawa States, troops responded to distress calls and conducted offensive operations that led to the killing of several extremists, the arrest of ten suspects, and the rescue of four kidnapped victims.
Recovered items included weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, vehicles, and cash exceeding ₦1.3 million.
South-South: Oil Theft Worth ₦224m Foiled
In the South-South, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE uncovered and destroyed multiple illegal refining sites and seized stolen petroleum products valued at over ₦224.2 million.
The breakdown includes 22,450 litres of crude oil, 5,500 litres of AGO, and 150,000 litres of PMS. Troops also dismantled 21 illegal refining ovens, nine dugout pits, and arrested eight suspected oil thieves.
In related operations in Rivers and Delta States, troops rescued one kidnapped victim and recovered weapons and ammunition from criminal elements.
South East: Wanted ESN Commander Arrested
Troops of Operation UDO KA sustained offensive actions across Imo, Abia, Anambra, and Enugu States, leading to the arrest of a notorious IPOB/ESN commander, Uche Okafor (alias Whipper), and four of his associates.
One terrorist was neutralized during a gun duel, while additional arrests were made in Ihiala (Anambra) and Enugu East (Enugu State). Recovered items included weapons, vehicles, and improvised explosive devices.
Commitment to National Security
Major General Kangye reaffirmed the military’s commitment to denying terrorists, insurgents, bandits, and kidnappers’ freedom of action across the country.
“The successes recorded are a testament to the determination and resilience of our troops who continue to work tirelessly to secure the nation,” he stated, while commending the professionalism and bravery of personnel engaged in ongoing operations.
He urged the media to continue to inform the public accurately on the Armed Forces’ achievements and assured Nigerians of continued efforts to ensure peace and security nationwide.
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