By Emmanuel Daudu

The Nigerian Armed Forces have achieved remarkable successes in their ongoing nationwide operations targeting terrorist factions, violent extremists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements. These efforts highlight the military’s unwavering resolve to restore peace and stability across the country.

Addressing the press during the weekly operational briefing in Abuja on November 21, 2024, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, provided a detailed report of the military’s progress.

He disclosed that the Troops Neutralized 61 Boko Haram (BH) and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including high-ranking commanders.

“34 suspects detained, 32 hostages rescued, and 22 terrorists (including families) surrendered.”

Major General Buba revealed that in Borno State, offensive strikes in Kaga, Bama, Jere, and Konduga LGAs resulted in 21 terrorist fatalities, with significant arms and ammunition recovered. Notably, troops repelled an ambush in Gujba LGA, Yobe State, killing 21 ISWAP fighters, including a notorious commander, Munzur “CO” Ya Audu.

Reeling the operations in North Central (Operation Safe Haven), he stated that 40 kidnapped victims were freed in Sanga and Mangu LGAs, Plateau and Kaduna States. 27 suspects, including a gunrunner were arrested and AK-47 rifles, fabricated weapons, motorcycles, and ammunition were recovered

He noted that North West (Operation Hadarin Daji) Troops eliminated 28 terrorists, 77 suspects arrested, and 57 hostages rescued.

The Director Defence Media Operations revealed that Lawali Sani, alias Dantsoho, a terrorist kingpin, was apprehended in Isa LGA, Sokoto State.

He noted that the Armed Forces of Nigeria destroyed terrorist hideouts in Katsina and Zamfara States, eliminating scores of fighters and disrupting logistics hubs.

Speaking further,he stated that Operation Whirl Stroke: Neutralized 11 insurgents and arrested 21 others in Taraba and Benue States, including a member of the Cameroonian Ambazonia Freedom Fighters. Eight hostages were freed.

Troops recovered crude oil worth over ₦921 million and dismantled 56 illegal refining sites, recovering over 872,000 liters of stolen crude oil”

During the week under review, the Armed Forces neutralized 115 criminals, arrested 238 individuals, and rescued 138 kidnapped victims. In total, 145 assorted weapons and 3,825 rounds of ammunition were recovered, alongside vehicles, motorcycles, and other logistics used by criminals.

Major General Buba reiterated the military’s commitment to dismantling terrorist networks and their operational capabilities.

Precision airstrikes and intelligence-led operations remain central to degrading the infrastructure and logistics of terrorist groups.

“Our troops are focused, mission-ready, and motivated to win the war against terrorism. This is a challenging task, but we are committed to minimizing casualties while protecting our citizens and safeguarding our nation,” Major General Buba emphasized.

The military’s achievements underscore its dedication to ensuring a safer and more secure Nigeria, despite the sacrifices involved. The operations serve as a testament to the Armed Forces’ relentless efforts to protect lives and restore normalcy across affected regions.