Nigerian Military Achieves Landmark Success in September Counterterrorism Operations

Nigerian Military Achieves Landmark Success in September Counterterrorism Operations

In a sweeping campaign across multiple regions of Nigeria, the Nigerian Armed Forces have reported a significant breakthrough in their September 2025 operations, marking one of the most impactful months in recent counterterrorism efforts.

According to the Defence Headquarters, troops successfully rescued 180 kidnapped civilians and apprehended 450 suspected terrorists and bandits. These operations, conducted under various joint task forces, spanned the North East, North West, North Central, South East, and South South regions of the country.

Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed that the military’s intensified efforts led not only to mass arrests and rescues but also to the elimination of scores of criminal elements. In addition, 39 terrorists voluntarily surrendered to the authorities. The troops recovered a substantial cache of weaponry, including 63 assorted arms, 4,475 rounds of ammunition, and 294 explosive devices such as grenades and components used in the fabrication of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). Communication and logistics equipment, including hand-held radios, motorcycles, and vehicles, were also seized, disrupting the operational capabilities of criminal networks.

In the North East, under Operation Hadin Kai, forces maintained relentless pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS insurgents. Coordinated ground and air operations, supported by hybrid forces and local security groups, led to the dismantling of terrorist camps and logistics networks in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe States. These efforts facilitated the safe resettlement of displaced persons and the restoration of farming activities. Troops also arrested 21 collaborators, informants, and sympathisers aiding terrorist groups.

The North West witnessed aggressive offensives under Operation Fasan Yamma, targeting bandit strongholds in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Kano, and Kaduna States. Notably, a wanted terrorist kingpin, Ali Saidu, was captured during these operations. Thirteen kidnapped victims were rescued, and 46 suspects were detained, further weakening bandit supply routes and command structures.

In the North Central region, troops under Operation Whirl Stroke and Operation Enduring Peace responded to distress calls and conducted clearance missions in Plateau, Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory. These missions resulted in the neutralisation of several extremists, the arrest of 18 suspects, and the rescue of six kidnapped individuals.

The South East saw continued action under Operation Udo Ka, where troops neutralised terrorists and arrested four others in Anambra and Imo States. Recovered items included arms, vehicles, and IED-making materials, underscoring the region’s vulnerability to insurgent activities.

Meanwhile, in the South South, Operation Delta Safe focused on economic sabotage, discovering and destroying 41 illegal refining sites. Troops thwarted oil theft valued at over ₦112 million, recovering tens of thousands of litres of crude oil and refined petroleum products. Eight oil thieves were arrested, and weapons and ammunition were seized.

Major General Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and stability across Nigeria. He emphasized that all operations were conducted in accordance with domestic and international rules of engagement, with a continued focus on civilian safety and the welfare of military personnel.

The Defence Headquarters assured the public that offensive and intelligence-driven missions will persist until lasting peace is achieved nationwide.