By Joy Odor Abuja
The Nigerian Armed Forces have unleashed a series of decisive blows against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers, and oil thieves across the country, with coordinated land, air, and joint operations delivering sweeping successes in the week ending 25 September 2025.
From the North East to the South South, troops recorded major victories: eliminating insurgents, arresting wanted criminal kingpins, foiling oil theft worth millions of naira, destroying illegal refineries, rescuing hostages, and recovering massive caches of arms and ammunition.
Major General Markus Kangye, the Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), who briefed journalists in Abuja on Thursday, described the nationwide operations as “a clear demonstration of the Armed Forces’ determination to deny terrorists and criminal elements freedom of action anywhere in Nigeria.”
North East – Boko Haram and ISWAP Crushed
Troops under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) sustained aggressive momentum against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS terrorists across Borno, Yobe, and Adamawa states.
Scores of insurgents were killed in firefights in Damboa, Konduga, Gwoza, Marte, Bama, Ngazai, Chibok, and Biu.
Three kidnapped victims were rescued.
Twenty-six terrorist collaborators, informants, and sympathizers were arrested.
Large caches of weapons, vehicles, motorcycles, and IED-making materials were seized.
“These operations are not only dismantling terrorist networks but also allowing displaced families to return to their farms and rebuild their lives,” Maj. Gen. Kangye said.
North West – Notorious Terror Kingpin Falls
In Kaduna, Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Niger states, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) maintained pressure on bandit gangs:
Several terrorists were neutralized during offensive raids.
Four terrorists were arrested.
A notorious kingpin, Mallam Abubakar Ahmadu, was captured in Niger State on September 17.
Fourteen kidnapped victims were rescued in daring operations.
Arms and ammunition were recovered, with captured suspects undergoing interrogation.
North Central – Weapons Factories Dismantled, Kidnap Lords Caught
Troops under Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) and Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) cracked down on terrorists and criminal gangs in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Kogi, and the FCT.
52 criminals were arrested in Plateau and Kaduna states.
A local arms factory was raided in Barkin Ladi, with weapons recovered.
A notorious kidnapper, Saawuan Wuaiyolna, linked to the gang of wanted warlord “Full Fire,” was captured in Taraba State.
Multiple victims were rescued across Benue, Kogi, and Abuja.
“These arrests are a huge dent in the leadership of criminal syndicates terrorizing communities,” the Defence spokesman said.
South South – Oil Thieves Routed
Troops under Operation Delta Safe (OPDS) struck hard against oil thieves and illegal refinery operators across the Niger Delta.
₦19.75 million worth of stolen crude and products were seized.
14,760 litres of crude oil, 3,720 litres of kerosene, and 625 litres of petrol were recovered.
16 illegal refineries, 14 crude ovens, 11 boats, and multiple dugout pits were destroyed.
19 suspects were arrested.
“Every litre of crude recovered is a victory for Nigeria’s economy,” Maj. Gen. Kangye stressed.
South East – Criminal Cells Neutralized
In Imo, Enugu, Anambra, and Cross River states, troops under Operation UDO KA (OPUK) sustained offensive raids:
Several criminals were killed in action.
Six suspects were arrested.
Three kidnapped civilians were rescued.
Explosives, vehicles, and weapons were seized.
Closing his briefing, Major General Kangye saluted the gallantry of Nigerian troops, assuring citizens that the Armed Forces would remain relentless.
“The bravery and professionalism of our troops are Nigeria’s strongest shield. We will continue to crush terrorists, protect civilians, and restore peace across all regions of this country.”
The Defence Headquarters urged the public to remain vigilant and support ongoing operations by providing credible intelligence to security forces.
