Emmanuel Daudu
In a year marked by relentless counterinsurgency and security operations, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have achieved significant milestones in safeguarding the nation.
Addressing a press briefing today in Abuja, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, detailed these accomplishments, which underscore the military’s unwavering commitment to restoring peace across five active theatres of operation.
Through sustained efforts in the North East, North West, North Central, South South, and South East regions, the Armed Forces neutralized 8,034 terrorists, apprehended 11,623 suspects, and rescued 6,376 hostages since January.
The Nigerian Armed Forces conducted aggressive campaigns, targeting insurgents and disrupting criminal networks. These efforts included clearing terrorist enclaves, dismantling operational bases, and denying criminals safe havens.
The military also recorded substantial recoveries of arms and ammunition, significantly reducing the operational capabilities of insurgent groups. The highlights include: 4,053 AK-47 rifles, 1,123 locally fabricated guns, 731 dane guns
Others include: 240 pump-action guns, 120,247 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition and 41,515 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition
Major Buba noted that confiscations included 1,940 assorted arms and 25,664 rounds of ammunition, further crippling criminal activities.
He disclosed that in combating oil theft and illegal refining activities in the South South, troops recovered 53,101,430 liters of stolen crude oil, 9,179,181 liters of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), 90,595 liters of DPK (Dual-Purpose Kerosene) and 156,095 liters of PMS (Premium Motor Spirit)
He added that these operations denied criminals an estimated ₦57 billion in illegal revenue.
Major General Buba emphasized that military operations have rendered terrorist and criminal activities increasingly untenable.
“Our troops are on an upward trajectory toward winning the war against insecurity. The Armed Forces are constantly evaluating strategies to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure the safety of Nigerians,” he stated.
He noted that in the Operation HADIN KAI (North East), 2,918 terrorists were neutralized, 1,496 hostages rescued and 15,950 Boko Haram/ISWAP combatants and family members surrendered
During Operation SAFE HAVEN (North Central),411 violent extremists neutralized, 927 hostages rescued and 1,859 suspects arrested
Major Buba expressed that Operation WHIRL STROKE (North Central) neutralized 583 terrorists, 649 hostages rescued and 916 suspects arrested
Reeling activities of Operation HADARIN DAJI (North West), he said 2,646 terrorists were neutralized, 2,339 hostages rescued and 1,654 suspects arrested
He expressed that Operation WHIRL PUNCH (North West) neutralized 732 terrorists, 569 hostages rescued and 1,842 suspects arrested
As the year concludes, the Armed Forces remain steadfast in consolidating their gains.
Citizens are encouraged to support security agencies in maintaining the achieved progress.
Major General Edward Buba reiterated the Armed Forces’ dedication to defending Nigeria and protecting its people from all forms of security threats.
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