.jpg)
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant breakthroughs across multiple theatres of operation, dismantling terror networks, rescuing kidnapped victims, and curbing economic sabotage during a series of coordinated missions across the country.
The update was provided by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, during the weekly military briefing held on Thursday, 25th September 2025 in Abuja. He stated that the week’s operations showcased the military’s determination to secure the nation while protecting civilian lives.
“Our troops, working closely with relevant security agencies, conducted a variety of operations aimed at denying terrorists and bandits safe havens, dismantling their networks, and cutting off their sources of funding. These actions are vital to ensuring national security, stability, and economic growth,” Kangye said.
North-East: Boko Haram, ISWAP Suffer Major Losses
The Joint Task Force North-East (Operation HADIN KAI) intensified assaults on Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States, conducting both kinetic and non-kinetic missions.
- Operations were carried out in Damboa, Konduga, Gwoza, Marte, Bama, Chibok, Biu, and surrounding areas.
- Scores of terrorists were neutralized, and three kidnapped victims were rescued.
- 26 terrorist collaborators and informants were arrested between September 15–22, while caches of improvised explosive device (IED) materials, motorcycles, vehicles, and logistics items were seized.
Kangye added that these operations are enabling safe resettlement of displaced persons and unimpeded farming in previously terrorized communities.
Kangye praised the intelligence-driven raids, stating: “These arrests strike at the very heart of the terror network, disrupting future attacks and weakening their command structure.”
North-West: Notorious Terror Leader Arrested
Troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA maintained pressure on criminal groups across the North-West region.
- Key missions took place in Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Niger States, leading to the elimination of several terrorists and the rescue of 14 kidnapped victims.
- A high-profile terrorist leader, Mallam Abubakar Ahmadu, was arrested alongside two accomplices during a covert operation in Paiko LGA, Niger State, on September 17.
- Additional arrests included two kidnappers’ informants in Kaduna and four suspected terrorists in Kebbi State
North-Central: Weapons Factory Busted
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE and Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded remarkable gains in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Kogi, and Taraba States.
- A weapons manufacturing factory was discovered and destroyed at Heipan District, Barkin Ladi, Plateau State, on September 17.
- 52 criminals were arrested, and nine kidnapped victims rescued across multiple operations.
- In a high-stakes mission, troops captured a notorious kidnapper, Saawuan Wuaiyolna, a member of a deadly syndicate linked to wanted gang leader “Full Fire” in Taraba State.
- Three other kidnappers were arrested at Kuduru high ground, Abuja Municipal Area Council (FCT), while one victim was rescued.
South-South: ₦19.7m Oil Theft Foiled
The Operation DELTA SAFE theatre focused on combating oil theft and illegal refining in the Niger Delta.
- Troops intercepted 14,760 litres of stolen crude oil, 3,720 litres of dual-purpose kerosene, and 625 litres of petrol, valued at ₦19.75 million.
- They destroyed 14 illegal refining sites, 11 boats, 8 storage tanks, and 14 crude oil cooking ovens.
- 19 suspected oil thieves were arrested, and weapons were recovered.
- Troops also rescued five kidnapped victims during raids in Delta, Cross River, and Akwa Ibom States.
South-East: Counter-Insurgency Drive
In the South-East, Operation UDO KA troops intensified counter-insurgency missions between September 17–23.
- Operations were executed in Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Cross River States, leading to the neutralization of several criminals, the arrest of six suspects, and the rescue of three kidnapped victims.
- A significant cache of weapons, ammunition, vehicles, and IEDs was seized.
Nationwide Results at a Glance
- Kidnapped Victims Rescued: 39
- Criminals/Terrorists Arrested: 121
- Illegal Refining Sites Destroyed: 16
- Notorious Criminal Leaders Arrested: 2 major kingpins
- Arms and Ammunition Seized: Large cache including RPGs, machine guns, and IED materials
- Value of Oil Theft Foiled: ₦19.75 million
The military high Command lauded the troops’ bravery and professionalism, emphasizing that their sacrifices are essential to national stability.
“The success of these operations is a testament to the resilience and determination of our forces. The Defence Headquarters assures Nigerians that the AFN remains resolute in its mission to safeguard lives and property,” he concluded.
The Defence Headquarters urged citizens to support ongoing operations by providing timely information to security agencies.
Source: Defence Headquarters, Abuja