The Nigerian Army has intensified its nationwide operations against terrorism and criminality, recording significant breakthroughs between September 1 and 5, 2025. The operations led to the neutralization of four terrorists, arrest of 64 suspects, rescue of kidnapped victims, and recovery of weapons, ammunition, and other logistics.
In the North East, troops of 117 Task Force Battalion, supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force and vigilantes, engaged terrorists in Yimurmuze, Chibok Local Government Area of Borno State, killing one terrorist and seizing an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, and 24 rounds of ammunition. Similarly, troops of 159 Battalion in Geidam, Yobe State, neutralized another terrorist, recovering weapons and ammunition, while 115 Task Force Battalion in Askira Uba, Adamawa State, arrested eight suspected cattle rustlers with assorted weapons and communication gadgets. Soldiers also discovered improvised explosive devices in New Marte.
In the North West, coordinated strikes by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and ground troops targeted terrorist hideouts in Zango, Katsina State, killing up to 15 insurgents, according to intercepted communications. In Sokoto State, troops of the Chief of Army Staff Intervention Battalion arrested two terrorist informants and logistics suppliers in Gudu Local Government Area.
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in the North Central region neutralized one armed herder during a gun duel in Logo, Benue State, recovering an AK-47 rifle and ammunition. In Niger State, joint air and ground operations in Mariga LGA led to the rescue of two kidnapped victims and the recovery of 28 rustled cattle.
Similar successes were recorded across other regions. In Kaduna State, 19 suspects were arrested during raids in Unguwan Dosa, Rigasa, Mando, and Tudun Wada. In Rivers State, soldiers uncovered 35 sacks of illegally refined petroleum products, amounting to about 1,750 litres, and arrested a suspect despite resistance from bunkerers. In Delta State, troops working with the NDLEA arrested three drug peddlers in Sapele, seizing cocaine, tramadol, and other illicit substances. In Oshimili South LGA, troops arrested two suspected IPOB/ESN members linked to improvised explosive device production.
Further operations in Lagos, Plateau, and the Federal Capital Territory also led to the arrest of armed robbers, kidnappers, and drug traffickers, as well as the recovery of firearms, ammunition, and illicit substances.
The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its commitment to restoring security across the country and creating a safe environment for farming and other socio-economic activities, in line with the Federal Government’s agenda on food security.