The Armed Forces of Nigeria recorded significant operational gains between April 10 and 16, 2026, sustaining pressure across multiple theatres against Boko Haram, ISWAP, JAS, kidnappers, and other violent groups.
Disclosing this on Friday, the Director, Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Michael Onoja, said that within the period, troops carried out coordinated offensives that led to the arrest of numerous suspects, rescue of kidnapped victims, interception of large consignments of logistics meant for terrorists, and the neutralisation of several armed criminals.
These operations, he said, form part of ongoing efforts to create a safe and secure environment across the country.
In the North East under Operation HADIN KAI, troops intensified kinetic operations, leading to the arrest of a long-term logistics supplier who confessed to providing fuel to terrorists for about a decade. Additional raids in Adamawa and Yobe States resulted in the arrest of over 20 suspects, including informants tracking troop movements.
A major breakthrough came with the interception of a truck in Yobe State carrying concealed medical supplies suspected to be destined for terrorist groups. Follow-up clearance operations across Bauchi, Plateau, and Taraba States dismantled several camps, while a key associate of a notorious terrorist kingpin was apprehended alongside his wife.
In the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded progress in disrupting terrorist networks across several states. Troops uncovered explosives and IED-making materials abandoned in a suspicious vehicle in Jigawa State, while multiple suspects linked to past attacks and kidnappings were apprehended in Kaduna.
Swift responses to attacks in Katsina helped repel terrorists, while clearance operations in Kebbi and Zamfara States led to the arrest of informants and disruption of planned movements by armed groups attempting to infiltrate forest corridors.
Operations in the North Central under SAVANNAH SHIELD and ENDURING PEACE yielded notable successes in counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping efforts. Troops engaged and overpowered terrorists in Niger State, capturing motorcycles and arresting suspects without recording casualties.
In Plateau, Kaduna, and Benue States, troops rescued kidnapped victims, foiled attacks, and tracked down suspects, including the arrest of a terrorist’s spouse which led to further intelligence breakthroughs and the rescue of additional hostages.
Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded gains across Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, with troops neutralising members of a kidnapping syndicate linked to a 2025 church abduction. Several kidnapped victims were rescued in follow-on operations, while raids on illegal mining sites and joint operations with vigilantes led to the arrest of arms traffickers and recovery of weapons.
In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE led to the arrest of suspects and recovery of motorcycles and ammunition in Edo and Cross River States, while in the South-East, Operation UDO KA neutralised a terrorist and recovered weapons during a firefight in Anambra, alongside arrests linked to ransom tracking operations in Enugu State.
Overall, the Armed Forces say the outcomes recorded within the week reflect sustained momentum in degrading criminal networks and restoring stability nationwide.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olatunbosun Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism and urged them to intensify operations within the bounds of the law and international humanitarian standards. He also expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their continued support, assuring that the military remains committed to securing the country and protecting all citizens.
