…as 146 Hostages Freed, Millions in Stolen Crude Recovered
By Joy Odor, Abuja
In a powerful display of force, coordination, and national resolve, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have unleashed a sweeping series of successful counter-terrorism and anti-crime operations across all regions of the country, neutralizing scores of insurgents, rescuing kidnapped victims, and dismantling criminal networks from Borno to Bayelsa, and from Sokoto to Imo State.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), in its weekly operational briefing for the period 3rd to 9th October 2025, confirmed that troops across multiple theatres, Operations HADIN KAI, FANSAN YAMMA, ENDURING PEACE, WHIRL STROKE, DELTA SAFE, and UDO KA intensified kinetic and non-kinetic operations, achieving “decisive gains” against terrorists, bandits, separatists, and oil thieves.
According to the Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Markus Kangye, the ongoing operations demonstrate “Nigeria’s collective resolve to confront emerging threats and safeguard national security with precision, professionalism, and humanity.”
NORTH-EAST: Boko Haram and ISWAP Crippled — Camps Levelled, Informants Nabbed
In the North-East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI sustained aggressive ground and air assaults against Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS fighters, denying them freedom of movement across Bama, Damboa, Konduga, Gwoza, Ngala, and Kukawa LGAs of Borno State.
Between 3rd and 8th October, dozens of terrorists were killed in coordinated offensives, while nine suspects were captured and three kidnapped victims rescued.
Troops also seized a cache of weapons, ammunition, and improvised explosive devices.
Additionally, 12 collaborators and informants were arrested in Chibok, Gubio, Mubi South, and Geidam, with recovered logistics materials, vehicles, drugs, and fuel supplies, a blow to the insurgents’ support infrastructure.
NORTH-WEST: Bandits Decimated, Victims Freed, Ransom Cash Seized
In the North-West, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA carried out deadly offensives across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto States, eliminating several terrorists and rescuing 33 kidnapped victims.
At least eight suspects were captured, while troops seized ₦3 million in suspected ransom money, motorcycles, and communication gadgets.
The military vowed to track down remaining gang leaders as investigations continue.
NORTH-CENTRAL: Terror Cells Crushed Across Plateau, Kaduna, and Benue
Under Operation ENDURING PEACE, troops swiftly responded to distress calls in Barkin Ladi, Mangu, and Jos East LGAs of Plateau and Lere, Jema’a, and Zangon Kataf LGAs of Kaduna, killing extremists, arresting seven, and freeing two abducted victims.
Weapons, vehicles, and over ₦1.3 million in cash were also recovered.
Meanwhile, Operation WHIRL STROKE troops maintained pressure across Taraba, Kogi, Benue, and Nasarawa States, neutralizing armed criminals, arresting three suspects, and rescuing two more hostages.
SOUTH-SOUTH: N224 Million Oil Theft Foiled — Illegal Refineries Destroyed
In the Niger Delta, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE struck a major blow against economic sabotage, dismantling oil theft rings valued at ₦224.2 million.
The operation led to the seizure of 22,450 litres of stolen crude oil, 150,000 litres of PMS, and the destruction of 21 illegal refining sites, 11 storage tanks, and 7 boats.
Eight suspects were arrested, while weapons and other illegal materials were recovered.
Troops also rescued a kidnapped victim during raids in Ahoada East (Rivers) and Ughelli North and Sapele (Delta).
SOUTH-EAST: IPOB/ESN Network Shattered — Commander “Whipper” Captured Alive
In the South-East, troops under Operation UDO KA maintained relentless offensive pressure on separatist elements.
Between 3rd and 8th October, soldiers raided terrorist hideouts in Imo, Abia, Enugu, and Anambra States, neutralizing one militant and arresting a notorious IPOB/ESN commander, Uche Okafor a.k.a. “Whipper”, alongside four accomplices.
Weapons, IEDs, and vehicles were recovered during the sting operations. Four additional criminals were apprehended in Ihiala and Enugu East, marking another tactical victory for security forces in the region.
AFN: No Safe Haven for Criminals — Military Reaffirms Resolve
Summarizing the nationwide operations, Major General Kangye praised the courage and professionalism of Nigerian troops, affirming that the Armed Forces remain unshaken in their mission to protect the nation and deny criminal elements any operational foothold.
“Our troops are demonstrating exceptional bravery and precision in neutralizing threats while minimizing harm to civilians,” he said. “Nigeria’s enemies have no hiding place,vwhether in the forests, creeks, or urban sanctuaries.”
He appealed for continued public cooperation and urged citizens to report suspicious activities promptly, emphasizing that security is a shared responsibility.
From the scorched deserts of the North-East to the mangrove swamps of the Delta, Nigeria’s Armed Forces have reaffirmed one clear message: The nation will not bow to terror, crime, or sabotage.
Their message to adversaries remains unmistakable, Nigeria will fight, Nigeria will stand, and Nigeria will win.
