The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have sustained a high operational tempo across all theatres of operations, destroying nine illegal refining sites and rescuing over 39 kidnapped victims in coordinated nationwide offensives conducted between February 9 and 13, 2026.
This was disclosed in a weekly operational update released by Defence Headquarters, highlighting intensified kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at neutralising terrorists, dismantling criminal networks, and restoring stability across the country.
According to the statement signed by Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, troops working in collaboration with security and intelligence agencies recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, including automatic weapons, rocket-propelled grenade tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated firearms, improvised explosive device materials, and assorted live cartridges.
North-East Operations
In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI maintained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states. Offensive operations conducted in several local government areas led to the neutralisation of scores of terrorists, arrest of eight suspects, and the rescue of 11 kidnapped victims.
In a separate ambush operation in Komala Village, Jere Local Government Area of Borno State, dozens of terrorists were eliminated, while weapons, motorcycles, and logistics materials were recovered.
Air interdiction missions also targeted terrorist enclaves in Bama and Damboa areas, where precision strikes destroyed enemy hideouts and neutralised fleeing insurgents.
North-West Operations
Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted aggressive offensives in Zamfara, Kano, and Katsina states. Several terrorists were neutralised, four arrested, and two kidnapped victims rescued. Recovered items included weapons, vehicles, and livestock.
North-Central Operations
In Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, troops intensified operations in Niger and Kwara states, dismantling terrorist checkpoints and dislodging criminal hideouts.
Under Operation ENDURING PEACE, troops responded to distress calls in Plateau and Kaduna states, neutralising several terrorists, arresting a wanted kidnap kingpin and five others, and rescuing four kidnapped victims.
Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded significant successes across Benue, Taraba, and Kogi states. Troops arrested 11 terrorists and rescued nine kidnapped victims. During clearance operations in forested areas in Lokoja, troops captured a major criminal camp and rescued over 13 additional victims.
South-South Operations
In the Niger Delta, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled major oil theft activities. Nine illegal refining sites were dismantled, while 11 suspects were arrested. Offensive operations in Rivers and Bayelsa states also led to the arrest of a notorious terrorist and gunrunner linked to violent groups.
South-East Operations
Troops of Operation UDO KA conducted cordon-and-search operations in Ebonyi State, leading to the arrest of eight suspected terrorists and recovery of arms and ammunition.
Defence Headquarters commended the courage and professionalism of troops across all theatres, noting that the successes reflect the Armed Forces’ resolve to protect lives and property.
The Chief of Defence Staff assured Nigerians of sustained efforts to intensify operations, strengthen inter-agency collaboration, and adapt strategies to address emerging security threats. He also urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies with credible information to enhance national peace and stability.
The Armed Forces reaffirmed their commitment to ensuring that terrorists and criminal elements are denied freedom of action anywhere in the country.
