The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded fresh operational victories across several theatres of operation nationwide between January 1 and 19, 2026, sustaining intense pressure on terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups threatening public safety and national stability. The coordinated operations, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, resulted in the neutralisation of key criminal elements, disruption of terror networks and the rescue of numerous abducted victims across the country.
In a briefing released by the Defence Headquarters (DHQ), the military said the sustained operations, conducted in collaboration with other security agencies, were aimed at strengthening national security, protecting lives and property, and creating a safe environment for socio-economic activities to flourish. The AFN reiterated its commitment to keeping Nigerians informed through regular and accurate updates on its operations.
According to the DHQ, troops recovered substantial quantities of arms and ammunition during the period under review, including automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, machine guns, locally fabricated weapons and materials used for the production of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). Several criminal networks were also dismantled across the country.
In the North-east, troops of Joint Task Force Operation Hadin Kai sustained offensive operations against Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States. The operations led to the neutralisation of several terrorists, the arrest of 34 suspects and the rescue of 17 kidnapped victims in various local government areas.
Troops also successfully thwarted coordinated terrorist attacks in Adamawa and Borno States. In Madagali, Adamawa State, an attempted attack on a patrol base was repelled without casualties or damage to military assets. Similarly, in Borno State, troops defended a Forward Operating Base in Azir, forcing the attackers to retreat with the support of the Air Component.
Air Force operations were pivotal in degrading terrorist capabilities in the North-east. Air interdiction missions in the Timbuktu Triangle and other locations resulted in the neutralisation of a senior terrorist commander, Munzir, also known as Baa Yanziye, alongside several fighters.
In the North-west, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma conducted coordinated offensive operations across Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Niger and Kano States. Several terrorists were neutralised, nine suspects were arrested and 52 kidnapped victims were rescued. Weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock were also recovered during the operations.
Across the North-central region, troops operating under Operations Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke responded to security threats in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Kogi and Kwara States. The operations led to the neutralisation of criminal elements, the arrest of several suspects and the rescue of over 35 kidnapped victims.
A major breakthrough was recorded in Taraba State with the arrest of the wife of a notorious extremist, John Gata. The arrest led to the recovery of a cache of arms and ammunition, including AK-47 rifles, magazines and hand grenades concealed in a remote community.
In the South-south, troops under Operation Delta Safe intensified the crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities. The military said crude oil theft valued at over ₦53 million was foiled, 20 illegal refining sites were destroyed and 31 suspects were arrested across Bayelsa, Delta, Rivers and Akwa Ibom States.
In the South-east, troops of Operation Udo Ka conducted clearance operations in forests and communities across Enugu, Imo and Anambra States. Suspected IPOB/ESN members, including an arms dealer, were arrested, while arms and communication equipment were recovered.
The Defence Headquarters stated that the successes recorded across all theatres underscore the determination, professionalism and resilience of Nigerian troops. It assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would remain focused on denying criminal elements freedom of action, while working closely with other security stakeholders to sustain peace, stability and national security across the country.