Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops killed scores of terrorists, rescued 430 abductees, and destroyed 32 illegal refineries during operations conducted in February.
Briefing journalists on Friday in Abuja on the ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) across the country, the Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael Onoja, stressed that troops have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, unwavering commitment, and notable successes across diverse operational theatres.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja noted that throughout February, the AFN intensified its multi-domain operations, leveraging advanced intelligence, inter-agency collaboration, and community partnerships to dismantle threats posed by terrorists, kidnappers, and economic saboteurs.
According to him, by integrating kinetic strikes with non-kinetic initiatives such as humanitarian assistance, infrastructure support, and dialogue with local leaders, the Armed Forces are building resilient communities capable of withstanding adversarial influences. He assured that every action taken adheres strictly to international humanitarian standards, rules of engagement, and a profound respect for human rights in line with global best practices.
Unveiling the achievements recorded during the month, Gen. Onoja revealed that troops rescued 430 kidnap victims, destroyed 32 illegal refineries, and arrested or neutralised several terrorists and other criminal elements across various theatres of operation.
He said, “In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained their kinetic campaign against Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) factions, effectively curtailing their mobility and logistical capabilities through joint efforts with hybrid forces, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local hunters. Our ground operations were bolstered by aerial reconnaissance, which targeted insurgent strongholds in remote and border regions. This month, we neutralised scores of terrorists, arrested eighty-five (85) suspects, facilitated the surrender of forty-six (46) insurgents and their families, and rescued one hundred and four (104) kidnapped victims. Significant recoveries of arms, ammunition, and equipment have further eroded terrorist networks, enabling the safe return of displaced persons and revitalising local economies.
“A pivotal engagement occurred in Kukawa LGA of Borno State, where troops repelled an assault by terrorists equipped with gun trucks, motorcycles, and five drones. The ensuing firefight resulted in the neutralisation of multiple adversaries and the seizure of weapons and a stretcher, underscoring our offensive posture. Furthermore, on 23 February 2026, troops intercepted a Toyota pick-up laden with vehicle spares and fabrics destined for Boko Haram, alongside a truck carrying four hundred and sixty (460) bags of fertiliser in Bade LGA of Yobe State. Similarly, forty-two (42) illegal miners were apprehended in Gulani LGA of Yobe State, thereby disrupting illicit activities that fund insurgency.
“To enhance community resilience and prevent terrorist resurgence, Operation HADIN KAI intensified offensive operations across areas such as Abadam, Bama, and Damboa LGAs of Borno State, as well as Damaturu and Geidam LGAs of Yobe State. The firefight near Sabsawa village in Borno State on 21 February 2026 saw troops respond with overwhelming firepower to a terrorist incursion, neutralising several insurgents and forcing the remainder to flee in disarray.
“These offensives have maintained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS elements, denying them safe havens and disrupting their operational cycles. Follow-on exploitation operations across sectors have further degraded terrorist capabilities through the recovery of arms, ammunition, logistics items, and equipment.
“In expansion of this offensive, troops executed precision strikes and night ambushes along known infiltration routes, including those from the Cameroon axis, effectively strangling terrorist logistics networks and launch areas. Coordinated air-land operations in areas such as Limankara and Kukawa in Borno State, as well as Lamusheri in Yobe State, have neutralised dozens of ISWAP fighters, repelled drone-assisted assaults, and destroyed key terrorist camps and supply hubs.
“By combining decisive offensive strikes with targeted intelligence gathering from communities, Operation HADIN KAI is systematically dismantling entrenched terrorist networks, paving the way for voluntary returns of displaced persons and post-conflict reconstruction.”
The DDMO said the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in the North-West has been instrumental in countering terrorism across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. “By fusing ground manoeuvres with air interdiction and real-time intelligence, troops maintained operational superiority, neutralising several terrorists, arresting thirty-six (36) suspects, and rescuing two hundred and fifty-one (251) hostages. The highlight of troops’ activities was on 21 February 2026, when troops rescued twenty-one (21) victims from Gidan Sarkin Bayero village in Musawa LGA of Katsina State, who were abducted on 19 February 2026 and were safely handed over to state authorities,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja disclosed that Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD troops extended their presence in Kwara and Niger States, targeting terrorist hideouts in forested and border terrains. Intelligence-driven offensives neutralised scores of terrorists, rescued several hostages, and recovered substantial arms during a fierce engagement on 18 February 2026 along the Kainji-Kwimo Road in Magama LGA of Niger State.
He said, “By emphasising rapid response and community intelligence, the operation has curtailed ambushes and abductions, creating safer corridors for commerce and travel. Non-kinetic engagements, such as stakeholder forums, have further strengthened ties with locals, promoting peace accords and early warning systems. To sustain these gains, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD has launched fighting patrols into forested areas in collaboration with the state government, focusing on areas used as criminal sanctuaries. This not only enhances security but also puts pressure on the terrorists to seek sanctuary outside the area, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for regional stability.”
He further revealed that in Plateau State, Operation ENDURING PEACE has effectively addressed terrorism, kidnapping, and ethno-religious tensions through robust responses to distress calls. “Troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested twenty-nine (29) criminals, rescued twenty-two (22) hostages, and recovered arms in multiple raids, demonstrating seamless coordination with air components and other security agencies.
“Notably, swift interventions in Babuje and Razat villages of Barkin Ladi LGA, as well as Jol and Dan Tanko communities of Riyom and Bassa LGAs of Plateau State, quelled farmer-herder clashes, restoring calm through dominance patrols and enforcement of law and order. Enhancing these efforts, the operation has implemented youth empowerment programmes, including vocational training in agriculture and conflict resolution, to prevent radicalisation and build harmony. These initiatives have been pivotal in transforming conflict zones into models of peaceful coexistence.”
According to the DDMO, Operation WHIRL STROKE, covering Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and parts of Kogi States, has tackled farmer-herder disputes, banditry, and kidnappings through offensive raids and patrols. “Successes include neutralising terrorists, arresting forty-nine (49) suspects, rescuing thirty-two (32) hostages, and recovering arms. The arrest of a key terrorist on 21 February 2026 in Sarkin Kudu, Ibi LGA of Taraba State, led to the recovery of arms, magazines, ammunition, and Two Million, Four Hundred and Forty Thousand Naira (N2,440,000) only, while a wanted logistics supplier was apprehended on 23 February 2026 in Tajimi, Lokoja LGA of Kogi State. These disruptions have impacted criminal finances and encouraged surrenders.
“Complementing kinetic operations, Operation WHIRL STROKE facilitated inter-community dialogues and enhanced market security, boosting trade and reducing economic vulnerabilities that fuel crime,” he disclosed.
In the South-South, Maj.-Gen. Onoja said Operation DELTA SAFE has ramped up anti-oil theft measures, arrested fifty-nine (59) criminals, rescued hostages, recovered one hundred and forty-four thousand and fifty (144,050) litres of crude oil and thirty-one thousand, six hundred and one (31,601) litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and destroyed thirty-two (32) illegal refining sites.
“Working together, maritime and land components, as well as other security agencies, dismantled processing equipment, thereby safeguarding national assets.
“Following the arrest of two suspected gunrunners on 21 February 2026 in Ugep, Yakurr LGA, and Adim, Biase LGA of Cross River State, troops, in close collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), conducted a targeted raid on 25 February 2026 at a suspect’s residence. The operation yielded significant recoveries, including one locally fabricated pistol, pistol components, specialised fabrication tools, and a substantial cache of assorted ammunition.
“In a related development during the same intelligence-driven operation, troops arrested one individual at his residence, recovering three additional locally made pistols, one semi-automatic fabricated pistol, one rifle bayonet, and one rifle barrel. All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and appropriate legal action. To bolster sustainability, the operation has partnered with environmental agencies for oil spill clean-ups and community education on lawful livelihoods, reducing reliance on illicit activities and promoting ecological and economic health in the Niger Delta,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja further revealed that Operation UDO KA in the South-East intensified actions against dissident groups such as the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States.
“Some successes recorded during the month include the arrest of fifty-four (54) terrorists and other criminal elements, as well as the rescue of kidnapped hostages. A key focus of recent activities included troops’ clearance operations at an identified building observed to be an IPOB/ESN logistics hub. On sighting the troops’ approach, the terrorists opened fire but were repelled by superior firepower, which forced them to withdraw into a rugged valley. Battle damage assessment revealed that scores of terrorists were neutralised, while some were severely wounded in action.
“The operation combined kinetic military actions with non-kinetic measures such as community engagement, medical outreaches, and conflict resolution initiatives. These coordinated offensives targeted terrorist hideouts, disrupted criminal networks, and prevented attacks on civilians and security forces, contributing to a notable decline in violent incidents and improved public confidence in affected communities,” he said.
He stressed that AFN troops across all theatres maintained aggressive, intelligence-led, and coordinated land, air, and maritime operations, relentlessly confronting terrorists, armed bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening national peace and stability.
According to him, these sustained efforts have delivered significant gains, including the neutralisation of hostile actors, recovery of substantial caches of arms and ammunition, successful rescue of kidnapped victims, disruption of illicit networks, and the progressive restoration of civil authority in previously disturbed areas.
He noted that AFN personnel have consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rules of engagement and international humanitarian standards, even in the face of evolving and complex threats. “We remain deeply grateful for the continued support and timely cooperation of ordinary Nigerians, whose credible intelligence and vigilance have proven indispensable to these operational successes. The Armed Forces of Nigeria will sustain this momentum, consolidate hard-won gains, and remain resolute in creating a secure environment that enables citizens to live, work, and thrive in peace,” he said.
He added, “The achievements of February 2026 exemplify our steadfast dedication to building a safe and secure Nigeria. As the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent commence, the AFN extends heartfelt best wishes to all observing these periods of reflection, prayer, and communal harmony. We urge everyone to remain security conscious, report any suspicious activity promptly via our emergency line 193, and collaborate closely with security agencies to ensure peaceful and incident-free observances.
“On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other Service Chiefs, I express profound appreciation to our gallant troops for their immense sacrifices; to our partners across security agencies and civil society for their invaluable collaboration; and to the Nigerian people and the media for their enduring trust and support. Together, united in purpose, we shall prevail.”
END
Odimmegwa Johnpeter/Abuja
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says troops killed scores of terrorists, rescued 430 abductees, and destroyed 32 illegal refineries during operations conducted in February.
Briefing journalists on Friday in Abuja on the ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) across the country, the Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael Onoja, stressed that troops have demonstrated extraordinary resilience, unwavering commitment, and notable successes across diverse operational theatres.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja noted that throughout February, the AFN intensified its multi-domain operations, leveraging advanced intelligence, inter-agency collaboration, and community partnerships to dismantle threats posed by terrorists, kidnappers, and economic saboteurs.
According to him, by integrating kinetic strikes with non-kinetic initiatives such as humanitarian assistance, infrastructure support, and dialogue with local leaders, the Armed Forces are building resilient communities capable of withstanding adversarial influences. He assured that every action taken adheres strictly to international humanitarian standards, rules of engagement, and a profound respect for human rights in line with global best practices.
Unveiling the achievements recorded during the month, Gen. Onoja revealed that troops rescued 430 kidnap victims, destroyed 32 illegal refineries, and arrested or neutralised several terrorists and other criminal elements across various theatres of operation.
He said, “In the North-East, troops of Operation HADIN KAI sustained their kinetic campaign against Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) factions, effectively curtailing their mobility and logistical capabilities through joint efforts with hybrid forces, the Civilian Joint Task Force, and local hunters. Our ground operations were bolstered by aerial reconnaissance, which targeted insurgent strongholds in remote and border regions. This month, we neutralised scores of terrorists, arrested eighty-five (85) suspects, facilitated the surrender of forty-six (46) insurgents and their families, and rescued one hundred and four (104) kidnapped victims. Significant recoveries of arms, ammunition, and equipment have further eroded terrorist networks, enabling the safe return of displaced persons and revitalising local economies.
“A pivotal engagement occurred in Kukawa LGA of Borno State, where troops repelled an assault by terrorists equipped with gun trucks, motorcycles, and five drones. The ensuing firefight resulted in the neutralisation of multiple adversaries and the seizure of weapons and a stretcher, underscoring our offensive posture. Furthermore, on 23 February 2026, troops intercepted a Toyota pick-up laden with vehicle spares and fabrics destined for Boko Haram, alongside a truck carrying four hundred and sixty (460) bags of fertiliser in Bade LGA of Yobe State. Similarly, forty-two (42) illegal miners were apprehended in Gulani LGA of Yobe State, thereby disrupting illicit activities that fund insurgency.
“To enhance community resilience and prevent terrorist resurgence, Operation HADIN KAI intensified offensive operations across areas such as Abadam, Bama, and Damboa LGAs of Borno State, as well as Damaturu and Geidam LGAs of Yobe State. The firefight near Sabsawa village in Borno State on 21 February 2026 saw troops respond with overwhelming firepower to a terrorist incursion, neutralising several insurgents and forcing the remainder to flee in disarray.
“These offensives have maintained pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS elements, denying them safe havens and disrupting their operational cycles. Follow-on exploitation operations across sectors have further degraded terrorist capabilities through the recovery of arms, ammunition, logistics items, and equipment.
“In expansion of this offensive, troops executed precision strikes and night ambushes along known infiltration routes, including those from the Cameroon axis, effectively strangling terrorist logistics networks and launch areas. Coordinated air-land operations in areas such as Limankara and Kukawa in Borno State, as well as Lamusheri in Yobe State, have neutralised dozens of ISWAP fighters, repelled drone-assisted assaults, and destroyed key terrorist camps and supply hubs.
“By combining decisive offensive strikes with targeted intelligence gathering from communities, Operation HADIN KAI is systematically dismantling entrenched terrorist networks, paving the way for voluntary returns of displaced persons and post-conflict reconstruction.”
The DDMO said the Joint Task Force (JTF), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, in the North-West has been instrumental in countering terrorism across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. “By fusing ground manoeuvres with air interdiction and real-time intelligence, troops maintained operational superiority, neutralising several terrorists, arresting thirty-six (36) suspects, and rescuing two hundred and fifty-one (251) hostages. The highlight of troops’ activities was on 21 February 2026, when troops rescued twenty-one (21) victims from Gidan Sarkin Bayero village in Musawa LGA of Katsina State, who were abducted on 19 February 2026 and were safely handed over to state authorities,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja disclosed that Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD troops extended their presence in Kwara and Niger States, targeting terrorist hideouts in forested and border terrains. Intelligence-driven offensives neutralised scores of terrorists, rescued several hostages, and recovered substantial arms during a fierce engagement on 18 February 2026 along the Kainji-Kwimo Road in Magama LGA of Niger State.
He said, “By emphasising rapid response and community intelligence, the operation has curtailed ambushes and abductions, creating safer corridors for commerce and travel. Non-kinetic engagements, such as stakeholder forums, have further strengthened ties with locals, promoting peace accords and early warning systems. To sustain these gains, Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD has launched fighting patrols into forested areas in collaboration with the state government, focusing on areas used as criminal sanctuaries. This not only enhances security but also puts pressure on the terrorists to seek sanctuary outside the area, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for regional stability.”
He further revealed that in Plateau State, Operation ENDURING PEACE has effectively addressed terrorism, kidnapping, and ethno-religious tensions through robust responses to distress calls. “Troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested twenty-nine (29) criminals, rescued twenty-two (22) hostages, and recovered arms in multiple raids, demonstrating seamless coordination with air components and other security agencies.
“Notably, swift interventions in Babuje and Razat villages of Barkin Ladi LGA, as well as Jol and Dan Tanko communities of Riyom and Bassa LGAs of Plateau State, quelled farmer-herder clashes, restoring calm through dominance patrols and enforcement of law and order. Enhancing these efforts, the operation has implemented youth empowerment programmes, including vocational training in agriculture and conflict resolution, to prevent radicalisation and build harmony. These initiatives have been pivotal in transforming conflict zones into models of peaceful coexistence.”
According to the DDMO, Operation WHIRL STROKE, covering Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, and parts of Kogi States, has tackled farmer-herder disputes, banditry, and kidnappings through offensive raids and patrols. “Successes include neutralising terrorists, arresting forty-nine (49) suspects, rescuing thirty-two (32) hostages, and recovering arms. The arrest of a key terrorist on 21 February 2026 in Sarkin Kudu, Ibi LGA of Taraba State, led to the recovery of arms, magazines, ammunition, and Two Million, Four Hundred and Forty Thousand Naira (N2,440,000) only, while a wanted logistics supplier was apprehended on 23 February 2026 in Tajimi, Lokoja LGA of Kogi State. These disruptions have impacted criminal finances and encouraged surrenders.
“Complementing kinetic operations, Operation WHIRL STROKE facilitated inter-community dialogues and enhanced market security, boosting trade and reducing economic vulnerabilities that fuel crime,” he disclosed.
In the South-South, Maj.-Gen. Onoja said Operation DELTA SAFE has ramped up anti-oil theft measures, arrested fifty-nine (59) criminals, rescued hostages, recovered one hundred and forty-four thousand and fifty (144,050) litres of crude oil and thirty-one thousand, six hundred and one (31,601) litres of Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), and destroyed thirty-two (32) illegal refining sites.
“Working together, maritime and land components, as well as other security agencies, dismantled processing equipment, thereby safeguarding national assets.
“Following the arrest of two suspected gunrunners on 21 February 2026 in Ugep, Yakurr LGA, and Adim, Biase LGA of Cross River State, troops, in close collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), conducted a targeted raid on 25 February 2026 at a suspect’s residence. The operation yielded significant recoveries, including one locally fabricated pistol, pistol components, specialised fabrication tools, and a substantial cache of assorted ammunition.
“In a related development during the same intelligence-driven operation, troops arrested one individual at his residence, recovering three additional locally made pistols, one semi-automatic fabricated pistol, one rifle bayonet, and one rifle barrel. All suspects and recovered items are currently in custody for further investigation and appropriate legal action. To bolster sustainability, the operation has partnered with environmental agencies for oil spill clean-ups and community education on lawful livelihoods, reducing reliance on illicit activities and promoting ecological and economic health in the Niger Delta,” he said.
Maj.-Gen. Onoja further revealed that Operation UDO KA in the South-East intensified actions against dissident groups such as the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States.
“Some successes recorded during the month include the arrest of fifty-four (54) terrorists and other criminal elements, as well as the rescue of kidnapped hostages. A key focus of recent activities included troops’ clearance operations at an identified building observed to be an IPOB/ESN logistics hub. On sighting the troops’ approach, the terrorists opened fire but were repelled by superior firepower, which forced them to withdraw into a rugged valley. Battle damage assessment revealed that scores of terrorists were neutralised, while some were severely wounded in action.
“The operation combined kinetic military actions with non-kinetic measures such as community engagement, medical outreaches, and conflict resolution initiatives. These coordinated offensives targeted terrorist hideouts, disrupted criminal networks, and prevented attacks on civilians and security forces, contributing to a notable decline in violent incidents and improved public confidence in affected communities,” he said.
He stressed that AFN troops across all theatres maintained aggressive, intelligence-led, and coordinated land, air, and maritime operations, relentlessly confronting terrorists, armed bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements threatening national peace and stability.
According to him, these sustained efforts have delivered significant gains, including the neutralisation of hostile actors, recovery of substantial caches of arms and ammunition, successful rescue of kidnapped victims, disruption of illicit networks, and the progressive restoration of civil authority in previously disturbed areas.
He noted that AFN personnel have consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rules of engagement and international humanitarian standards, even in the face of evolving and complex threats. “We remain deeply grateful for the continued support and timely cooperation of ordinary Nigerians, whose credible intelligence and vigilance have proven indispensable to these operational successes. The Armed Forces of Nigeria will sustain this momentum, consolidate hard-won gains, and remain resolute in creating a secure environment that enables citizens to live, work, and thrive in peace,” he said.
He added, “The achievements of February 2026 exemplify our steadfast dedication to building a safe and secure Nigeria. As the sacred seasons of Ramadan and Lent commence, the AFN extends heartfelt best wishes to all observing these periods of reflection, prayer, and communal harmony. We urge everyone to remain security conscious, report any suspicious activity promptly via our emergency line 193, and collaborate closely with security agencies to ensure peaceful and incident-free observances.
“On behalf of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, and other Service Chiefs, I express profound appreciation to our gallant troops for their immense sacrifices; to our partners across security agencies and civil society for their invaluable collaboration; and to the Nigerian people and the media for their enduring trust and support. Together, united in purpose, we shall prevail.”
END
