Armed Forces of Nigeria Announce Significant Security Gains

Emmanuel Daudu

The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with relevant security agencies, has announced notable progress in ongoing military operations across the country throughout May 2025.

Speaking to the press, Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized the military’s unwavering commitment to national security, the protection of citizens, and transparency with the public.

According to Maj Gen Kangye, the Armed Forces conducted both kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at neutralizing security threats and creating a safe environment for economic activities.

He praised the professionalism, sacrifice, and dedication of the troops, highlighting their courage in confronting complex and evolving threats across various regions.

In the Niger Delta, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE reportedly prevented oil theft amounting to over ₦1.05 billion. The troops recovered more than 853,000 litres of stolen crude oil, 214,000 litres of illegally refined diesel (AGO), 5,785 litres of kerosene (DPK), and 2,650 litres of petrol (PMS). Additionally, over 97 illegal refining sites and 488 items of equipment were destroyed. Other recovered items included pumping and drilling machines, tricycles, motorcycles, mobile phones, and 23 vehicles.

Across all theatres of operation, security forces recovered a wide array of weaponry including automatic rifles, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, machine guns, locally fabricated weapons, improvised explosive devices, and large quantities of ammunition.

In the North-East, troops operating under Operation HADIN KAI reported the surrender of dozens of ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters, including women and children, as pressure intensified. Offensive operations conducted in Borno and Yobe States led to the elimination of several terrorists and the rescue of 16 kidnapped victims. Troops also recovered various arms and explosives, as well as fuel containers and motorcycles.

Security forces arrested 23 suspected terrorist collaborators and logistics suppliers during coordinated operations in several communities across Borno and Yobe States. Items recovered included IED-making materials, armored cables, grains, fertilizers, and mobile phones. Cash totalling over ₦550,000 was also seized.

In the North-West, Operation FASAN YAMMA troops engaged terrorists in Katsina, Sokoto, and Zamfara States. Over 100 kidnapped victims were rescued through a non-kinetic approach. The troops recovered weapons, ammunition, hand grenades, vehicles, handheld radios, and motorcycles.

Responding to intelligence on terrorist activity in Danmusa, Matazu, and Sabon Birni LGAs, troops neutralized several threats and rescued four additional kidnapped victims.

Meanwhile, in the North Central region, troops of Operation SAFE HAVEN carried out successful offensives in Plateau and Kaduna States. Several extremists were neutralized, six suspects were arrested, and one kidnap victim was rescued.

Acting on a tip-off, troops also arrested 20 suspected criminals in Kaduna State and conducted anti-kidnapping operations that led to the recovery of arms, motorcycles, and livestock.

Under Operation WHIRL STROKE, troops reported significant successes across Taraba, Kogi, Ondo, and Benue States. Combat operations led to the death of extremists, the arrest of 14 suspects, and the rescue of 32 kidnapped individuals. Several terrorist camps and motorcycles were also destroyed.

In a joint effort with the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), troops intercepted two suspected gunrunners in Abuja. Additional arrests were made in Nasarawa, Benue, and Edo States, where suspects were found in possession of weapons, mobile phones, and vehicles.

In the South-East, Operation UDO KA sustained offensive momentum against violent separatist groups. Troops engaged terrorists in Abia and Enugu States, arresting five suspects and rescuing five kidnapped victims. Arms, IED-making materials, and mobile phones were recovered. In a raid on a terrorist camp in Abia State, troops seized automatic weapons, laptops, CCTV devices, motorcycles, and large sums of local and foreign currency, including ₦11.7 million and $27,000.

Troops also recovered arms and ammunition during an anti-kidnapping operation in Imo State, and arrested six suspects across Imo and Abia States. Among items seized were Biafran currency, more than 50 ATM cards, and motorcycles.

Back in the Niger Delta, troops continued to dismantle illegal refining sites and equipment. In one week alone, more than 289,000 litres of stolen crude oil and 346,000 litres of illegally refined diesel were recovered. Sixty-five suspects were apprehended, and various weapons, including water gel explosives, were seized.

Maj Gen Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to peace, security, and transparency.

He noted the complexities of modern warfare and acknowledged the bravery of Nigerian troops.

He assured the public that security forces would continue to provide timely updates while maintaining the confidentiality necessary for operational success.

“Our troops remain vigilant, adaptable, and determined to overcome any challenge. We are grateful for the public’s support as we work towards restoring peace in every troubled region,” he said.