Nigerian troops have neutralized 69 terrorists, rescued 363 kidnapped victims, and arrested 49 suspects across multiple operational theaters in the past week, according to the Defence Headquarters (DHQ). Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed the figures, confirming that one soldier was killed in action and another sustained injuries during the operations.
Anti-Crude Oil Theft Operations
In anti-crude oil theft operations, troops dismantled three illegal refinery sites and recovered 251,600 liters of stolen crude oil. The operations spanned the Niger Delta, where the military intensified efforts to curb oil theft, a major economic challenge for the country.
North East: Operation Hadin Kai
In the North East, Operation Hadin Kai troops foiled an abduction attempt along the Buratai-Kamuya Road, rescuing 31 civilians. Clearance operations in Gwoza also led to the rescue of four hostages who had been held since 2023. Additionally, 18-year-old Blessing Tuggur, abducted in November 2025, was rescued in Askira Uba. Several arrests were made, including logistics suppliers and informants linked to terrorist activities.
North West: Operation Fansan Yamma
In the North West, Operation Fansan Yamma intercepted 21 suspects in Kaduna, handing five identified terrorists to the Department of State Services (DSS). Precision airstrikes over Mariga Local Government Area in Niger State neutralized scores of terrorists who had gathered for an operation and destroyed their logistics infrastructure.
North Central: Operation Savanna Shield and Operation Whirl Stroke
In the North Central, Operation Savanna Shield rescued 308 abducted victims—primarily women and children—from Kainji Lake National Park. Operation Whirl Stroke troops dismantled the hideout of a terrorist leader known as “Full Fire” in Benue State and arrested suspected gunrunners. Troops also repelled attacks in Kogi and Niger states, preventing further casualties.
Niger Delta: Operation Delta Safe and Operation Delta Sentinel
In the Niger Delta, Operation Delta Safe rescued 11 kidnapped travelers along the Lagos-Benin Road. Operation Delta Sentinel troops confiscated over 250,000 liters of stolen crude oil across Rivers and Delta states, dealing a significant blow to illegal oil bunkering activities.
South East: Operation Udoka
In the South East, Operation Udoka arrested key suspects connected to a lethal ambush that occurred in May. Those arrested include Albert Tony (aka Chiboy), Temple Eburua (aka Marathon), and Vitalis Eburua (aka Onowu). A militant leader known as “Comedy” surrendered a cache of arms in Imo State, while troops in Enugu arrested five suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and recovered heavy weaponry.
Chief of Defence Staff Commendation
Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops across all theaters for their discipline and commitment to national defense. He reiterated the military’s resolve to sustain operations until terrorism and insecurity are completely eradicated in the country.
