The Nigerian Armed Forces, in collaboration with hybrid forces and security agencies, recorded significant operational successes in the second quarter of 2025 across various theatres of operation, the Defence Headquarters has announced.
Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed this in a quarterly briefing on military activities covering April to June 2025. He revealed that coordinated counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations led to the neutralisation of several high-profile terrorist commanders, arrest of over 1,191 suspects, and rescue of 543 kidnapped victims nationwide.
Among the top terrorist leaders eliminated were Amir Abu Fatimah, Kinging Auta, Abdul Jamilu, Salisu, Mallam Jidda, Maiwada, Mai Dada, and IPOB/ESN commander Nwachi Eze, also known as Onowu. Bandit kingpin Yellow Danbokkolo was confirmed dead two days ago after succumbing to injuries from a recent clash with troops.
A total of 682 terrorists and their families reportedly surrendered to troops during the period, citing sustained military pressure and overwhelming firepower. Arrests were also made, including several gunrunners and kidnappers such as Buhari Umar, Hassam Mohammed, and Shittu Muazu Bakassi.
In the Niger Delta, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE disrupted illegal oil operations, recovering over 2.3 million litres of stolen crude oil and destroying 174 illegal refining sites. The economic sabotage thwarted was valued at over N3.5 billion, with 45 vehicles impounded and several suspects arrested.
Significant arms, ammunition, improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and other combat materials were also seized during various operations.
He explained that between June 27 and July 2, scores of ISWAP and Boko Haram terrorists surrendered, while offensive operations in Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa States resulted in the arrest of 32 suspects and seizure of weapons and IED-making materials. Eleven terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers were also arrested with items including mobile phones, solar panels, and illicit drugs.
Major General Kangye further revealed that troops eliminated several terrorists during patrols in Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. Six suspects were arrested and six kidnapped victims were rescued in separate encounters.
He highlighted that troops engaged extremists in Plateau and Kaduna States, resulting in multiple arrests, rescue of kidnapped victims, and recovery of weapons and stolen property. Nine suspected criminals were also nabbed following credible intelligence.
According to him, Military operations in Taraba, Kwara, Nasarawa, Benue, and Kogi States led to the elimination and arrest of extremists and criminals, including illegal miners. Six kidnapped victims were rescued, and arms and mining equipment were confiscated.
The Director maintained that the military intensified its clampdown on crude oil theft. Troops arrested 12 oil thieves and seized vast quantities of stolen crude and illegally refined products. In Akwa Ibom, 15 victims of a suspected militia group were rescued.
Troops equally arrested 21 suspects involved in drug trafficking and terrorism-related activities in Imo and Anambra States. A joint operation with the DSS led to the arrest of three suspects linked to the kidnapping of the NDLEA Commander in Anambra. Two IPOB/ESN sponsors were also arrested with over N1.5 million and multiple mobile devices recovered.
Major General Kangye commended field commanders and frontline troops for their resilience, discipline, and professionalism, affirming the military’s commitment to uphold the laws of armed conflict and rules of engagement.
He extended appreciation to the media for its role in spotlighting the military’s efforts and assured Nigerians of continued progress in securing the nation from internal threats.
“We reaffirm our resolve to rid the country of all criminal elements. Our operations will continue unabated until lasting peace is restored across the nation,” Kangye stated.
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