The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant successes across various theatres of operations in the country during the month of July 2025, with numerous terrorists neutralized, kidnapped victims rescued, and massive economic sabotage foiled.
In a press statement from Defence Headquarters on Thursday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, disclosed that the military operations were conducted under the strategic guidance of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa (OFR), in line with the directives of the Commander-in-Chief.
According to Maj Gen Kangye, the operations—which spanned the North East, North West, North Central, South South and South East regions—were aimed at degrading insurgents, bandits, oil thieves, and other criminal elements threatening national security.
“Our armed forces remain fully engaged in tackling insurgency, banditry, oil theft, communal violence, and other forms of criminality to restore peace, protect lives and property, and preserve the sovereignty of our nation,” Kangye stated.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF OPERATIONS
During the period under review, troops neutralized a large number of terrorists and arrested no fewer than 578 suspects, including terrorists, kidnappers, gunrunners, and cultists. About 134 kidnapped victims were rescued across different operations. A terrorist commander, Ibn Ali, alongside 151 other terrorists and their families also surrendered to the military.
Among the notorious terrorists killed during July operations were commanders Yellow Danbokolo, Amir Dunkei, Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu, and Ali Yar Daribiyar.
In the North East under Operation HADIN KAI, troops conducted coordinated ground and air offensives across Marte, Bama, Konduga, and other parts of Borno and Adamawa States. These led to the elimination of scores of Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, the arrest of logistics suppliers, and the recovery of weapons and explosives. Eight terrorists and eleven collaborators were also arrested.
In the North West, under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops conducted raids in Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Sokoto States. These efforts resulted in the arrest of nine terrorists, neutralisation of others, and rescue of six kidnapped persons.
Troops under Operation SAFE HAVEN in the North Central responded to threats in Plateau and Kaduna States. Several extremists were killed, while a notorious extremist, Dayabu Idris, and four others were apprehended. Troops rescued seven kidnapped victims and recovered arms and vehicles.
Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops operating in Benue, Kogi, Niger, FCT, Taraba, and Nasarawa States arrested 17 suspects, neutralised others, and rescued multiple kidnap victims. Recovered items include weapons, motorcycles, and communication devices.
OIL THEFT BUSTED IN SOUTH-SOUTH
A major highlight of the July operations was the huge blow dealt to economic saboteurs under Operation DELTA SAFE. Troops discovered and destroyed illegal refining sites, recovering over 974,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 269,257 litres of refined AGO, and other petroleum products. The estimated worth of the foiled oil theft is over ₦1.3 billion.
Additionally, troops destroyed 126 crude oil cooking ovens, 107 pits, 39 boats, 83 storage tanks, and arrested 285 suspects, recovering arms, ammunition, and explosives.
SOUTH EAST OPERATIONS TARGET IPOB/ESN
Troops of Operation UDO KA in the South East sustained their offensive posture, arresting several members of the proscribed IPOB/ESN. In one operation, a suspect attempted to flee during arrest and was neutralised. Troops recovered weapons and key materials for ongoing investigations.
UNWAVERING COMMITMENT TO NATIONAL SECURITY
Maj Gen Kangye reiterated the Armed Forces' resolve to maintain professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rules of engagement and human rights obligations. He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support.
“Every operation we undertake is guided by our unwavering commitment to national security, the safety of our personnel, and the principles we are sworn to uphold,” he emphasised.
He assured the public that the military will remain vigilant and responsive to emerging threats, while providing updates as necessary.