By Bavoriat Clara
The Armed Forces of Nigeria have intensified both kinetic and non-kinetic operations across various theatres of operation, dealing significant blows to terrorist groups, kidnappers, oil thieves and other criminal elements across the country. The operations conducted between 28 February and 6 March 2026 also led to the arrest of several suspects and the rescue of kidnapped victims.
In a statement by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military said the sustained offensives demonstrate its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy, economic stability and the safety of citizens. According to him, the operations have denied criminal groups safe havens, limited their mobility and boosted community confidence while upholding human rights and the rule of law.
Under Operation Hadin Kai in the North East, troops sustained pressure on remnants of Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS factions, neutralising several terrorists, arresting 20 suspects and rescuing 24 kidnapped victims, while 11 insurgents surrendered with their families. Troops also repelled attacks in Borno State and recovered arms, ammunition, drones and materials used for manufacturing improvised explosive devices.
In a major air operation in the Sambisa Forest, the Air Component eliminated key terrorist leaders including Saddam, Saleh Garin Kago and Ba Alayi Benbem, alongside several fighters.
Similarly, under Operation Fansan Yamma in the North West, troops neutralised terrorists, arrested suspects and rescued hostages through coordinated ground and air operations. Troops also intercepted suspects conveying arms and ammunition concealed in a bag of rice, while others were arrested in Kaduna State after attempting to receive medical treatment for injuries sustained during earlier encounters with troops.
In the North Central theatre, troops under Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke recorded further successes, including the neutralisation of terrorists, arrests of suspected gunrunners and the rescue of kidnapped victims. In Niger State, troops engaged terrorists in Roguwa Forest, neutralising more than 17 fighters, while a vehicle transporting substances used in manufacturing explosives was intercepted in Kwara State.
In the South-South region, troops of Operation Delta Safe intensified the crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining activities, destroying several illegal refining sites and arresting suspected oil thieves. Security forces also intercepted about 50,970 litres of stolen crude oil and illegally refined products in parts of Rivers and Abia States.
Meanwhile, in the South-East under Operation Udo Ka, troops conducted targeted operations against the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network. The operations led to the arrest of suspected terrorists and the recovery of arms, foreign currency and other incriminating items during clearance operations in Imo, Abia and Cross River States.
The Armed Forces said the sustained multi-theatre operations have resulted in the neutralisation of several terrorists, elimination of high-value leaders, arrest of suspects, rescue of over 50 kidnapped victims and destruction of criminal infrastructure across the country.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, commended troops for their gallantry and professionalism, while also appreciating the support of Nigerians in providing credible intelligence. He assured citizens that the Armed Forces remain committed to working with stakeholders to ensure lasting security across the country.
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