The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), in collaboration with other security agencies, recorded significant operational successes across the country between 19 and 23 January 2026, neutralising terrorists, arresting criminal elements, rescuing kidnapped victims, and disrupting illicit activities across all operational theatres.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the operations were intelligence-driven and executed with strict adherence to the Rules of Engagement, international humanitarian law, and respect for human rights. He noted that sustained offensive actions, air interdictions, and clearance operations have continued to deny criminal groups freedom of action.
In the North East theatre, troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States.
During ground and air operations in Damboa, Askira Uba, Chibok, Mafa, Gwoza, Biu, Michika and Damaturu LGAs, scores of terrorists were neutralised, including dozens eliminated through precision air strikes.
Additionally, 7 suspects were arrested, while 4 kidnapped victims were rescued. Large quantities of arms, ammunition and IED-making materials were recovered.
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted offensive operations across Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto and Kaduna States.
Several terrorists were neutralised during fierce engagements in Maru, Anka, Tsafe, Talata Mafara, Batsari, Kankara, Tangaza, Wurno, Giwa and Birnin Gwari LGAs.
Within the period, 10 suspects were arrested and 7 kidnapped victims rescued, while weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock were recovered.
In Plateau and parts of Kaduna States, troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE responded to multiple security threats in Bokkos, Bassa, Jos North and South, Riyom, Mangu, Barkin Ladi, Wase, Kaura and Jama’a LGAs.
Some extremists were neutralised during firefights, while 39 criminal suspects were arrested. Troops also rescued 4 kidnapped victims and recovered arms, ammunition and $4,500 linked to cattle rustling.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded further successes across Benue, Taraba, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa States and the FCT.
Operations in Donga, Takum, Wukari, Guma, Otukpo, Katsina-Ala and surrounding areas led to the arrest of 11 suspected kidnappers, while 6 victims were rescued. Weapons, ammunition and motorcycles were recovered.
Major General Onoja reaffirmed the Defence Headquarters’ appreciation of the media as strategic partners in national security, urging responsible and professional reportage. He also commended Nigerians for their continued cooperation and support, noting that the Armed Forces remain resolute in their constitutional mandate to protect the nation’s sovereignty and ensure the safety of all citizens.
