In a strong start to the new year, the Defence Headquarters has announced significant successes in counterterrorism operations, revealing that troops neutralized 109 terrorists, arrested 81 suspects, and rescued 43 hostages during the first week of 2025.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, made this known in a statement on Friday, emphasizing the military’s ongoing commitment to dismantling insurgent networks and ensuring national security.
“During the week under review, troops neutralized 109 terrorists, arrested 81 suspects, and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages,” Maj. Gen. Buba said, highlighting the extensive efforts across multiple operations nationwide.
In the northeast, troops of Operation Hadin Kai reported eliminating 64 terrorists, apprehending 28 suspects, and rescuing 14 hostages. Notably, on January 3, 2025, the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted a precise airstrike on terrorist hideouts in Alawa Forest, Shiroro LGA of Niger State. The operation destroyed several enemy structures and logistics while neutralizing scores of insurgents.
Maj. Gen. Buba added that Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded the neutralization of 21 terrorists, 24 arrests, and the rescue of five hostages in the north-central region.
In the Niger Delta, troops focused on combating oil theft, preventing the illegal appropriation of crude oil valued at approximately ₦618.8 million.
During the operations, security forces dismantled 10 illegal refining sites, seized 12 boats, and destroyed infrastructure used in oil theft, including 10 crude oil cooking ovens. Six suspects were also apprehended in connection with these activities.
Maj. Gen. Buba commended the troops for their dedication and urged citizens to remain vigilant and support security agencies. “Troops are continuing their successful operational engagements. As a result, citizens will continue to see the increasing effectiveness and efficiency of the armed forces,” he concluded.
The military’s robust response reflects its determination to combat terrorism and safeguard national resources, ensuring a more secure and stable Nigeria in the months ahead.