FG Counters Security Criticism, Cites Major Military Successes
The Federal Government has strongly pushed back against escalating criticism regarding Nigeria's security situation, emphasizing a series of recent military operations as clear evidence of steady progress in combating insecurity nationwide. In a detailed statement released by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Presidency argued that public discourse often focuses on isolated incidents while ignoring the consistent achievements made by troops across various operational theaters.
Recent Military Operations and Victories
According to the statement, Nigerian forces have executed coordinated operations in recent days, resulting in the rescue of kidnapped individuals, arrests of criminal suspects, recovery of arms and ammunition, and neutralization of terrorists and bandits. In one notable instance, troops from Operation Whirl Stroke successfully rescued 13 passengers who had been abducted along the Makurdi-Otukpo road in Benue State. The victims were freed during a search-and-rescue mission in a forest within Ohimini Local Government Area and subsequently taken to a hospital for medical treatment. Preliminary investigations revealed that the perpetrators were local criminal elements, contradicting earlier reports that had attributed the attack to external groups.
Security Efforts Across Multiple Regions
In Plateau State, troops under Operation Enduring Peace reportedly arrested suspected militias connected to recent attacks, recovered weapons, and disrupted planned assaults in areas including Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, and neighboring communities. These security operations also led to the rescue of injured victims, interception of armed suspects, and recovery of rustled livestock, with troops engaging attackers in separate encounters. In the North-East, forces from Operation Hadin Kai repelled terrorist incursions in Borno and Yobe states, neutralized insurgents, and arrested logistics suppliers linked to extremist organizations.
Similarly, in the North-West, soldiers repelled an attack in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State, while troops in Kogi State destroyed a suspected terrorist camp and disrupted a supply network. In the South-East, joint security forces discovered and safely detonated improvised explosive devices during patrols in Imo State. Additionally, the Presidency highlighted a foiled kidnap attempt in Edo State, where troops rescued victims and arrested suspects following a rapid response to a distress call.
Government's Call for Support and Recognition
The statement emphasized that these developments highlight the resilience, professionalism, and sacrifice of Nigeria's armed forces, who continue to confront diverse security threats across the country. While acknowledging that challenges persist, the Federal Government maintained that the Armed Forces are making measurable progress in degrading criminal networks and restoring order in affected communities. It urged Nigerians to support ongoing security efforts and avoid narratives that could undermine troop morale on the frontlines. "The armed forces deserve commendation for their sacrifices and commitment, not condemnation and vilification," the Presidency stated.
