In a resounding show of force and tactical efficiency, the Armed Forces of Nigeria recorded sweeping successes across multiple theatres of operation between April and June 2025, eliminating top terrorist commanders, rescuing hundreds of kidnapped victims, and dismantling criminal syndicates nationwide.
The Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, who disclosed this today during a press briefing with Journalists at the New Conference Room of the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, noted that the second quarter of 2025 witnessed “significant achievements” despite a few challenges.
“Troops across all theatres demonstrated uncommon courage, resilience and high level of professional competence during all encounters with non-state actors,” he stated.
According to Kangye, during the period under review, troops neutralised several terrorist kingpins including the dreaded Amir Abu Fatimah, Auta, Abdul Jamilu, Salisu, Mallam Jidda, Maiwada, Mai Dada and Nwachi Eze (a.k.a Onowu). Notorious bandit leader Yellow Danbokkolo also died from injuries sustained in a recent clash with troops.
In total, over 1,191 terrorists and criminal elements were arrested, while 543 kidnapped victims were rescued. Additionally, 682 terrorists and their family members surrendered to troops due to the military’s overwhelming firepower.
Among those apprehended were notorious gunrunners and kidnappers, including Buhari Umar, Hassam Mohammed, Saleh Sani, Adamu Dan Mai, Idi Yusuf, Hassan Bello, and Michael, among others.
One of the most striking accomplishments came from the Niger Delta, where troops of Operation DELTA SAFE foiled oil theft operations worth over ₦3.5 billion. “The breakdown indicates 2,381,239 litres of stolen crude oil, 605,393 litres of illegally refined AGO, 41,465 litres of DPK and 26,905 litres of PMS were recovered,” Kangye revealed. Troops also dismantled 174 illegal refining sites and impounded 45 vehicles.
In the North East, Operation HADIN KAI saw a mass surrender of ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists between 27 June and 2 July, as troops intensified operations in Borno, Yobe and Adamawa States. “Troops arrested 11 terrorists, logistics suppliers and collaborators,” said Kangye, adding that items such as ICT gadgets, motorcycle spares, fertilisers and illicit drugs were seized.
In the North West, under Operation FASAN YAMMA, several terrorists were killed and 4 kidnapped victims rescued during operations in Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto and Zamfara States. Six suspected terrorists were also arrested.
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Operation SAFE HAVEN in the North Central zone led to the arrest of 9 suspects and the rescue of 8 kidnapped victims, while Operation WHIRL STROKE resulted in the arrest of 13 criminals, including illegal miners in the FCT, and recovery of arms, motorcycles and mining equipment.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA troops raided several hideouts in Anambra and Imo States. Twenty-one suspects involved in drug trafficking and IED manufacturing were arrested. In one notable raid conducted with DSS operatives, three suspects, Emeka Ede, Okwudili Aja, and Onyebuchi Aja, believed to have masterminded the 12 July kidnapping of the NDLEA Commander in Anambra State, were taken into custody.
On intelligence-led operations, Kangye added: “Troops acting on credible intelligence arrested 2 suspects at a Point of Sale belonging to an IPOB/ESN sponsor in Ihiala LGA, recovering the sum of ₦1,561,400, transaction booklet and 8 mobile phones.”
Wrapping up the briefing, Major General Kangye commended field commanders and troops for their professionalism and discipline. “We assure Nigerians that the Military and all security agencies observed our Code of Conduct for Internal Security Operations (ISO), Laws of Armed Conflict and Rules of Engagements (ROE),” he said.
He also extended appreciation to the press “for keeping faith with us in this drive and informing Nigerians about the laudable efforts of our troops in the field.”
The Nigerian Military has clearly sustained momentum across all fronts, signalling a robust and determined effort to neutralise threats, restore law and order, and protect the nation’s territorial integrity.