The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, has directed commanders at all levels to sustain operational momentum, prioritize troop welfare, and uphold the highest professional standards while protecting civilian populations in their areas of operations.
CDS Reaffirms Commitment to National Security
Oluyede reassured Nigerians that the Armed Forces of Nigeria remains committed to protecting lives, property, and national interest across every corner of the country. He called on communities to continue their invaluable partnership with security forces by providing timely and accurate intelligence to appropriate authorities.
The Director of Defence Media Operations (DMO), Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this during a news conference on Friday. He said the CDS also urged the media to responsibly highlight the sacrifices of troops whose daily dedication secures the peace that citizens enjoy, and encouraged the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and hopeful.
“The CDS reaffirmed the commitment of Defence Headquarters to transparency, operational accountability, and the sustained pursuit of a secure, united, and prosperous Nigeria for all its citizens,” Onoja stated.
Determination to Defeat Terrorism and Criminality
Oluyede vowed that the AFN will not waver nor relent in its determination to defeat terrorism, separatist violence, pipeline vandalism, and every form of criminality threatening the peace, unity, and sovereignty of Nigeria.
Speaking during the briefing, Onoja revealed that in the past week, troops neutralized 15 terrorists, arrested over 25 suspects, collaborators, and gunrunners, and rescued more than 63 kidnapped victims. Between April 30 and May 7, 2026, troops arrested over 57 terrorists, neutralized 26, and rescued 35 kidnapped victims across the country.
Recoveries and Interdictions
According to Onoja, various calibers of weapons, ammunition, and stolen petroleum products were recovered during the period. On May 8, 2026, a terrorist logistics convoy crossing from Cameroon into Nigeria was intercepted by troops on ambush along the Banki-Kumshe Road in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State, forcing the insurgents to withdraw and abandon their supplies.
Onoja disclosed that bicycles, jerrycans of fuel, surgical drips, assorted medications, motorcycle parts, phone batteries, food items, and sundry materials were recovered from them.
Commendation and Condolences
Oluyede commended the gallantry, discipline, and professionalism demonstrated by troops across all theatres of operation during the week, acknowledging the enormous sacrifices of officers and soldiers who lay down their lives in service to the nation. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the families, friends, and loved ones of personnel who paid the supreme sacrifice.
