The Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded significant breakthroughs in ongoing nationwide operations between 17 and 26 November 2025, dealing major setbacks to terrorist groups, arresting a key arms dealer, rescuing kidnapped victims, and foiling oil theft valued at over N173 million. Across all theatres of operation, troops intensified offensive actions, destroyed criminal enclaves, and recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, underscoring the military’s renewed momentum in restoring peace and security nationwide.
In a weekly press statement, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops recovered large quantities of arms, ammunition, and improvised explosive device materials, while several kidnappers, informants and logistics suppliers were arrested.
The operations covered all Joint Task Force theatres, including the North East (OPHK), North West (OPFY), North Central (OPEP and OPWS), South-South (OPDS), and South East (OPUK).
North East: ISWAP, Boko Haram Suffers Setbacks
Troops of Operation Hadin Kai sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists in Borno and Adamawa states, killing many fighters and destroying camps in Damboa, Bama, Monguno, Magumeri, Chibok, Ngala, Gwoza, Askira Uba, Abadam, Michika and Song.
Eleven terrorist collaborators, informants and spies were arrested while eight kidnapped commuters were rescued along Gwoza–Limankara road. Weapons, vehicles and ammunition were recovered.
On 19 November, air interdiction strikes in the Sambisa axis destroyed terrorist storage facilities and neutralised several fighters.
North West: Arms Dealer Arrested, Victims Rescued
Under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops recorded major successes across Zamfara, Kaduna, Kebbi, Katsina, Sokoto and Niger states. Dozens of terrorists were killed, 15 arrested and 13 kidnapped victims rescued.
A key breakthrough occurred on 19 November when troops arrested a terrorist logistics supplier in Bukkuyum, Zamfara State, with transaction records of N4 million for arms procurement. Investigations revealed the suspect kept weapons and uniforms of a major terrorist group.
Airstrikes on 20 November targeted Pauwa Hill in Kankara LGA of Katsina, destroying camps and killing scores of terrorists.
North Central: Criminal Gangs Routed In Plateau, Nasarawa, Kogi, Benue
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace responded to distress calls in Plateau and Kaduna states, killing extremists and arresting a notorious gang leader, Umar Idi (alias Lere), alongside nine others. Ten kidnapped victims were rescued.
Recovered items included weapons, motorcycles, vehicles, N2.6 million cash, and rail-track vandals’ bribery receipts totalling N5.3 million.
Similarly, Operation Whirl Stroke forces neutralised criminals and rescued nine kidnapped victims during raids in Kogi, Nasarawa, Taraba and Benue states. Eleven suspects were arrested, with several weapons and livestock seized.
South-South: Troops Foil Oil Theft Worth N173 Million
Operation Delta Safe troops intercepted 105,650 litres of stolen crude oil and 63,820 litres of illegally refined AGO, valued at over N173.7 million. Thirteen suspects were arrested and 11 illegal refining sites destroyed.
Troops also arrested a wanted cult leader, Dan Okposuogu (alias World Wide), and six others in Rivers and Ondo states, rescuing three kidnapped victims.
South East: Terrorist Camps Destroyed In Enugu, Criminals Arrested
Operation UDO KA troops sustained raids in Imo, Abia, Ebonyi and Anambra states, arresting seven criminals and rescuing five kidnapped victims. Several arms, vehicles and IED-making materials were recovered.
An air interdiction strike on 18 November destroyed a terrorist hideout in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State, killing a number of fighters and destroying their logistics base.
The Armed Forces reiterated their resolve to safeguard lives, restore peace and protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity. Major General Onoja urged citizens to continue providing credible information and commended troops for their bravery and professionalism.
He assured Nigerians that the military "is strengthening operational tempo in light of renewed security threats until peace is restored to all troubled areas."
