Troops Kill 662 Terrorists, Arrest 1,084 Suspects, Rescue 951 Victims in Q2- DHQ

By Maryam Aminu/ Emmanuel Daudu 

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) intensified its nationwide security operations in the second quarter of 2026, eliminating no fewer than 662 terrorists and criminal elements, arresting 1,084 suspects and rescuing 951 kidnapped victims as the military deepened intelligence-led offensives aimed at dismantling criminal support networks across the country.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), which disclosed the figures in Abuja on Wednesday, said the operations reflected a strategic shift from conventional combat to targeting the logistics, financing and operational structures sustaining insurgency, kidnapping and organised criminality.

Addressing journalists at the quarterly Defence Media Operations briefing, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops recorded significant operational gains through coordinated land offensives, close air support and intelligence-driven missions conducted across all theatres of operation.

According to him, the Armed Forces sustained pressure on Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), kidnapping syndicates, illegal oil bunkering cartels and cross-border arms traffickers.

He described the achievements as evidence of “the enduring commitment of a professional and resolute force dedicated to restoring peace, stability and confidence across every geopolitical zone of the nation.”

The North-East remained the centre of military engagements under Operation Hadin Kai, where troops accounted for the highest number of successes with 484 terrorists neutralised, 370 suspects arrested and 595 kidnapped victims rescued.

Major General Onoja also disclosed that 38 insurgents and their family members surrendered during the period, while one of the most significant breakthroughs came during a coordinated operation in the Mandara Mountains area of Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State, where 360 civilians, mostly women and children, were rescued.

In the North-West theatre under Operation Fansan Yamma, troops neutralised 77 terrorists, arrested 210 suspects and rescued 153 kidnapped victims while intercepting arms traffickers, logistics suppliers and collaborators operating across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states.

Operations across the North-Central under Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke resulted in the killing of 83 terrorists, the arrest of 305 suspects and the rescue of 183 kidnapped victims.

The military said particular attention was given to dismantling criminal infrastructure through targeted operations against informants, logistics providers, illegal arms couriers and kidnapping collaborators.

In the South-East, troops operating under Operation Udo Ka killed 12 terrorists, arrested 115 suspects and rescued 20 kidnapped victims.

The military further disclosed that troops recovered large quantities of weapons, improvised explosive devices and ammunition, while several key commanders and logisticians linked to criminal activities were apprehended during targeted raids.

Meanwhile, in the South-South region, Operation Delta Safe focused on combating economic sabotage and organised criminality.

According to the DHQ, troops neutralised six criminal elements, arrested 84 suspects, dismantled 12 illegal refining sites and recovered over 464,268 litres of stolen petroleum products in what it described as a major setback for oil theft operations in the Niger Delta.

The Defence Headquarters noted that the high number of arrests compared to terrorists eliminated demonstrates an evolving operational approach focused on disrupting support structures and weakening criminal networks beyond battlefield encounters.

Reaffirming the military’s commitment, Major General Onoja assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would sustain counter-terrorism, counter-banditry, anti-kidnapping, anti-oil theft and anti-arms proliferation operations to consolidate security gains nationwide.

He also urged citizens to continue supporting security agencies through timely and credible intelligence sharing.

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) further unveiled a strengthened intelligence-driven security strategy and introduced a new toll-free emergency reporting line, 193, as part of efforts to deepen citizen participation in the fight against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and organised crime across Nigeria.

Onoja explained that the new toll-free line, 193, was introduced to encourage Nigerians to provide timely and actionable intelligence capable of supporting ongoing military operations and improving rapid response mechanisms.

NASENI Reaffirms Commitment to Research Commercialisation, Unveils Breakthrough in Nanocellulose Innovation

Maryam Aminu

The National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI) has reaffirmed its commitment to commercialising research outcomes and driving innovation that supports Nigeria’s industrialisation and economic growth, as it called on scientists and researchers within the Agency to intensify efforts toward developing market-driven technologies.

The call was made by the Director, Nano Science Department, NASENI, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso, while declaring open the “NASENI Hybrid Scientific Engagement Programme: Science Perspective” on Tuesday, June 30, 2026. The seminar, organised by the Science Infrastructure Directorate, was designed to strengthen collaboration among researchers, promote knowledge exchange and accelerate scientific innovation across the Agency.

Addressing participants, Dr. Ezeanyanaso described the engagement as a strategic platform for fostering collaboration and generating ideas capable of translating scientific research into technologies that will boost Nigeria’s industrial and economic development.

She explained that the programme is an expanded version of the department’s regular scientific seminar series, aimed at encouraging wider participation across the NASENI system.
“This seminar provides an opportunity for colleagues to learn from one another and generate ideas that will support innovation and national economic growth,” she said.

Dr. Ezeanyanaso urged participants to actively engage in the discussions, stressing that scientific advancement thrives on the free exchange of ideas rather than hierarchy.
“There is no seniority here; what matters is knowledge sharing,” she added.

The Director also commended the Executive Vice Chairman/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, for his continued support for research and innovation across the Agency.

Front row: Director, Nano Science Department, NASENI, Dr. Chika Ezeanyanaso (9th from left); Overseeing Officer, Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro (8th from left); Deputy Director, Research Laboratory Department, Dr Hassan Bakare (10th from left); Deputy Director, Nanoscience Department, Mr. Kayode Oladipo (6th from right) and Chief Engineer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute, Enugu, Engr. Dr Samuel Wadzani Gadzama; and other staff of the Agency in a group photograph during the seminar. 

She equally appreciated the Overseeing Officer of the Advanced Manufacturing Technology Development Institute (AMTDI), Jalingo, Mr. Barkindo Abdulrahman Bawuro, while reaffirming the department’s commitment to sustaining research that will lead to continuous scientific discoveries and technological innovation.

A major highlight of the seminar was a presentation by Engr. Dr Samuel Wadzani Gadzama, Chief Engineer, Scientific Equipment Development Institute (SEDI), Enugu, who presented an overview of nanoscience research undertaken by the Agency since 2013.

Dr. Gadzama revealed a significant research breakthrough involving the extraction of nanocellulose fibre from pineapple leaves following extensive laboratory testing conducted both within Nigeria and internationally.

According to him, the research has resulted in the development of a sustainable material with considerable industrial potential, noting that the nanocellulose fibre can serve as a raw material for producing biodegradable plastics and other environmentally friendly products.

In his vote of thanks, Deputy Director of the Research Laboratory Department, Dr Hassan Bakare, praised the Science Infrastructure Directorate for creating a platform that encourages scientific exchange and collaborative learning.

He also advocated the establishment of a joint seminar platform involving the Science and Engineering Infrastructure Directorates to promote interdisciplinary collaboration, accelerate innovation and further strengthen NASENI’s contribution to industrial growth and national development.

Amid Escalating Crisis and Food Shortages, Japan Supports Families Facing Extreme Hunger in Nigeria

By Emmanuel Daudu

The Government of Japan has stepped up humanitarian assistance to Nigeria by providing resources to the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support families facing severe hunger in the country’s conflict-ridden northeast.

The intervention comes as food insecurity reaches alarming levels across Nigeria, particularly in the northern region, where years of conflict, displacement and economic hardship have left millions struggling to access adequate food.

According to the WFP, millions of people remain in displacement camps due to persistent insecurity, with many unable to return to their farms. The agency said the combined impact of prolonged conflict, rising fuel prices and the increasing cost of essential commodities has made it difficult for many households to afford even one nutritious meal a day.

The organisation noted that Japan’s contribution would provide critical food assistance to vulnerable families in northeast Nigeria, where humanitarian needs continue to rise.

One of the beneficiaries, Hadiza, a 30-year-old widow and mother of four from Borno State, said the assistance has given her family renewed hope after years of hardship caused by the insurgency.

“After years of displacement and loss, the support I receive from WFP is helping me to care for my children and rebuild our lives. This food assistance is a lifeline for my little ones and me,” she said.

Speaking on the intervention, WFP Nigeria’s Programme Policy Officer, Itaru Furata, described Japan’s support as timely, saying millions of people in northern Nigeria are facing unprecedented levels of hunger.

He said the donation would provide much-needed relief to families struggling to survive and urged other development partners and donors to support WFP’s humanitarian efforts in the country.

“Japan’s support comes at a critical moment, as millions of people in northern Nigeria face unprecedented levels of hunger, offering much-needed assistance to families struggling to survive. We do not take this support for granted and call on other donors to follow suit in joining our mission to save the lives of the most vulnerable,” Furata said.

The WFP stated that despite worsening insecurity, it has continued to deliver emergency food assistance and other humanitarian interventions to communities affected by conflict, displacement and climate-related shocks.

The agency said it has maintained operations over the past decade across Borno, Adamawa and Yobe states, where insecurity and environmental challenges have disrupted food production, markets and livelihoods.

It warned that the humanitarian situation could worsen without increased international support, stressing that the consequences of hunger extend beyond food shortages to include instability, insecurity, forced displacement and a greater risk of vulnerable people being recruited by armed groups.

The organisation therefore appealed to donors and partners to increase their support, maintaining that sustained humanitarian assistance remains essential to saving lives, stabilising communities and promoting long-term peace and resilience in northeast Nigeria.

MYISD Hails Marwa’s Security Leader Award, Says Fight Against Drug Abuse Deserves National Support

By Maryam Aminu

The Executive Director of Michelle Youth Initiative for Sustainable Development (MYISD), Princess Mimi Peters, has congratulated the Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) CON, OFR, on his recognition as Security Leader of the Year 2025, describing the honour as a deserving tribute to a man leading one of Nigeria’s most critical battles against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

Princess Peters said the award, presented by Ogun Security Research and Strategic Consulting LLC (OSRS), United States, reflects the growing national and international recognition of Marwa’s relentless efforts in strengthening drug control, promoting rehabilitation and protecting communities from the devastating consequences of substance abuse.

She noted that drug abuse remains one of the most dangerous threats confronting modern societies, warning that its effects extend beyond individual users to fuel insecurity, destroy families, weaken communities, affect mental health, reduce productivity and expose young people to criminality and social instability.

According to her, the rising prevalence of substance abuse across communities continues to pose serious challenges to public health, education, economic growth and national development.

Princess Peters disclosed that concerns around the growing impact of drug abuse informed her organisation’s decision to prioritise conversations around substance abuse at its forthcoming national female youth conference as part of efforts to drive awareness, prevention and youth engagement.

L-R: Chairman NDLEA, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa and Founder OSRS, Dr. Sunday Oludare Ogunlana

Commending Brig Gen Marwa’s leadership, she said the NDLEA under his watch has witnessed renewed momentum through strengthened enforcement operations, sustained public enlightenment campaigns, rehabilitation interventions and strategic stakeholder engagement. She urged other security leaders and institutions to draw lessons from Marwa’s approach to service and institutional reform.


She said: “This recognition reflects not only outstanding leadership but also the importance of sustained action against the drug menace that continues to threaten the future of many young people and communities.

“Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa has shown remarkable dedication in leading efforts aimed at curbing drug abuse and trafficking while advancing a safer and healthier society. His work serves as an inspiration to institutions, development organisations and young people across the country.”

Princess Peters reaffirmed MYISD’s commitment to advancing advocacy, youth development and sustainable initiatives that encourage healthy living and protect young people from the dangers associated with substance abuse.

She also expressed the organisation’s readiness to collaborate with individuals and institutions both within Nigeria and across the diaspora in driving economic development and impactful social interventions.

Speaking further, Princess Peters reserved special commendation for the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of OSRS, Dr. Sunday Oludare Ogunlana, describing him as a worthy ambassador whose commitment to recognising excellence from the diaspora demonstrates patriotism, visionary leadership and enduring connection to national development.

She applauded Dr. Ogunlana for not only identifying and celebrating impactful leadership but for creating platforms that project Nigeria’s positive stories globally.

According to her, despite being based abroad, Dr. Ogunlana has continued to honour distinguished Nigerians contributing meaningfully to national growth and security, urging Nigerians in the diaspora to emulate such deliberate efforts in giving back and promoting excellence at home.

Princess Peters also appreciated Dr. Ogunlana for finding Michelle Youth Initiative for Sustainable Development worthy to be part of the delegation that presented the award to the NDLEA leadership.

She wished Brig Gen Marwa continued strength, wisdom and success in advancing national security and safeguarding future generations.

The Security Leader of the Year 2025 Award was presented to the NDLEA Chairman/CEO at the Agency’s headquarters in Abuja during a brief ceremony attended by senior officials of the Agency and members of the OSRS delegation.

DHQ Mourns Ex-Defence Spokesman Rabe Abubakar, Vows Renewed Offensive Against Terrorists

Maryam Aminu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity following his abduction, describing the incident as a painful national loss and declaring that the tragedy would reinforce ongoing military operations against terrorism across Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) received news of the former military spokesman’s death with deep regret and extended condolences to his family, colleagues and Nigerians.

According to Defence Headquarters, Major General Rabe Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction throughout his military career and held several strategic appointments, including spokesperson roles in different military formations and Director Defence Information for the Armed Forces.

The Defence Headquarters noted that beyond his public communication responsibilities, the late senior officer made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations, military professionalism and institutional development within the Armed Forces.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN,” the statement said.

DHQ disclosed that it deliberately refrained from making public comments about the abduction while rescue efforts were underway, stressing that operational resources were deployed in an attempt to secure his release.

The military said the loss of the retired general has further strengthened its determination to carry out its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, safeguarding territorial integrity and protecting citizens.

It added that in response to recent abductions across the country, including that of Major General Rabe Abubakar, military operations had been intensified to track down those responsible and dismantle terrorist networks.

The Armed Forces assured Nigerians that it would sustain pressure on criminal and terrorist elements until peace and security are restored and perpetrators of terrorist activities are brought to justice.

DHQ Mourns Ex-Defence Spokesman Rabe Abubakar, Vows Renewed Offensive Against Terrorists

Maryam Aminu

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced the death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar in captivity following his abduction, describing the incident as a painful national loss and declaring that the tragedy would reinforce ongoing military operations against terrorism across Nigeria.

In a statement issued on Saturday, Director Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) received news of the former military spokesman’s death with deep regret and extended condolences to his family, colleagues and Nigerians.

According to Defence Headquarters, Major General Rabe Abubakar served Nigeria with distinction throughout his military career and held several strategic appointments, including spokesperson roles in different military formations and Director Defence Information for the Armed Forces.

The Defence Headquarters noted that beyond his public communication responsibilities, the late senior officer made significant contributions to counter-insurgency operations, military professionalism and institutional development within the Armed Forces.
“His commitment to duty and to the unity of Nigeria remains a shining example for all personnel of the AFN,” the statement said.

DHQ disclosed that it deliberately refrained from making public comments about the abduction while rescue efforts were underway, stressing that operational resources were deployed in an attempt to secure his release.

The military said the loss of the retired general has further strengthened its determination to carry out its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty, safeguarding territorial integrity and protecting citizens.

It added that in response to recent abductions across the country, including that of Major General Rabe Abubakar, military operations had been intensified to track down those responsible and dismantle terrorist networks.

The Armed Forces assured Nigerians that it would sustain pressure on criminal and terrorist elements until peace and security are restored and perpetrators of terrorist activities are brought to justice.

DECAN Mourns Former Defence Spokesman Major General Abubakar Rabe, Hails Legacy of Service

Maryam Aminu

The Defence Correspondents Association of Nigeria (DECAN) has mourned the death of former Director of Defence Information, Major General Abubakar Rabe (Retd.), describing his death in captivity as a painful loss to the military, the media community and the nation at large.

In a statement issued on June 13, 2026 and signed by its Secretary, Musa Umar Bologi, the association said it received the news of the retired senior officer’s passing with profound sadness following reports that
he died while being held captive by bandits.

DECAN noted that the Defence Headquarters announced the development in a statement released on Saturday by the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba.

According to the association, Major General Rabe and his wife were abducted on May 30, 2026, and despite ongoing efforts to secure their release, news of his death later emerged, plunging the nation, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and the media community into mourning.

Paying tribute to the late military officer, DECAN described him as a disciplined officer, a gentleman and a bridge-builder whose contributions helped strengthen civil-military relations through constructive engagement with journalists.
The association said Major General Rabe’s commitment to fostering understanding between the military and the media would remain an enduring part of his legacy.

DECAN extended condolences on behalf of its members to the family of the deceased, the Chief of Defence Staff, the Armed Forces of Nigeria and all those affected by the tragic development.

It also prayed that Almighty God grants the late military officer eternal rest and gives his family, friends and associates the strength to bear what it described as an irreparable loss.

Nigeria, Jordan Deepen Military Ties With Defence, Intelligence Pact

By Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria has taken a fresh step to strengthen its defence architecture and expand international security partnerships following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan aimed at boosting defence cooperation and intelligence sharing.

The agreement, signed in Amman on Sunday, 10th May 2026, is expected to deepen collaboration between both countries in critical areas including counter-terrorism, military capability development and defence innovation.

Nigeria’s Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, signed on behalf of Nigeria, while Major General Yousef A. Alhnaity, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff of the Jordanian Armed Forces, represented Jordan.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the MoU establishes a framework for cooperation covering intelligence exchange, defence capability enhancement, joint military training, defence research and industry, as well as mutual support in advancing regional and global peace and security.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr. Matawalle described the agreement as a major milestone in bilateral relations between both countries and underscored the importance of strategic defence partnerships in responding to evolving global and regional security threats.


“Nigeria and Jordan recognise the value of mutually beneficial cooperation and remain committed to deepening defence ties to promote peace, security, and stability within our respective regions,” he said.

The Minister further highlighted the importance of technology transfer under the agreement, noting that plans for establishing a production line in Nigeria align with the provisions of the DICON Act and support broader efforts to strengthen local defence capacity.

The Ministry stated that the MoU reflects the shared commitment of Nigeria and Jordan to work in good faith, build stronger mutual trust and pursue coordinated action in addressing common security priorities.

The agreement is also expected to open new opportunities for defence collaboration and institutional partnerships between both nations in the years ahead.

Matawalle Courts Global Defence Partnerships at SAHA Expo 2026 in Türkiye

By Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

Nigeria intensified its push for stronger international defence collaboration as the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, led the country’s delegation to SAHA Expo 2026 in Istanbul, engaging global industry leaders and exploring strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening the nation’s defence capabilities.

The high-level engagement at the global defence and aerospace exhibition underscored Nigeria’s renewed focus on expanding indigenous defence production and deepening international cooperation to enhance the operational readiness of the Armed Forces.

Held from 5th to 9th May 2026, SAHA Expo 2026 attracted more than 1,700 companies, including 263 international firms, alongside over 30,000 defence and aerospace professionals from more than 120 countries.

Dr. Matawalle and members of Nigeria’s delegation participated in the official opening ceremony alongside the Special Guest of Honour, Mehmet Fatih Kacır, Minister of Industry and Technology of the Republic of Türkiye; Türkiye’s Minister of National Defence, Yaşar Güler; and other senior government and industry representatives.

Speaking at the opening, SAHA Expo 2026 Chairman, Haluk Bayraktar, described the exhibition as “a meeting point for minds that will dominate technology.”

As part of Nigeria’s participation, the Minister toured exhibition stands of prospective defence partners, including Nigeria’s indigenous Defence Industry Corporation of Nigeria (DICON), while also holding strategic engagements with key international stakeholders.

Among the notable meetings was an engagement with Vugar Mustafayev, Minister of Defence Industry of the Republic of Azerbaijan, focused on expanding defence cooperation and enhancing military capabilities.

The meeting was attended by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal S.K. Aneke, and centred on advancing the operational capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria through strategic partnerships involving DICON and other global defence firms.

Reaffirming Nigeria’s evolving defence strategy, Dr. Matawalle said the country was prioritising long-term industrial cooperation over transactional procurement.
“Nigeria is moving from buying and selling to building solid partnerships with reliable defence partners,” he stated.

Queeneth Iheoma-Hart (CIO) disclosed the development on behalf of the Director, Information and Public Relations, Ministry of Defence, Abuja.

FG Moves To Deepen Hydrography Capacity, Targets Maritime Growth and SecurityBy Dr. Emmanuel Daudu

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its resolve to make hydrography a strategic national priority as part of efforts to strengthen maritime security, improve navigation safety and unlock greater economic opportunities within Nigeria’s blue economy.

The commitment was restated by the Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H. E. Dr. Bello Muhammad Matawalle, MON, during a courtesy visit by the newly appointed Hydrographer of the Federation and Chief Executive Officer of the National Hydrographic Agency (NHA), Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi, and his management team to the Minister’s office in Abuja.

Dr. Matawalle said the Renewed Hope Administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, remains committed to supporting the National Hydrographic Agency and expanding Nigeria’s hydrographic capabilities to improve data generation and strengthen maritime operations.

According to the Minister, hydrography remains a critical component of national development, especially in enhancing marine transportation, defence planning and the sustainable use of ocean resources.
“The NHA plays a strategic role in advancing Nigeria’s and the Gulf of Guinea’s maritime capabilities. By facilitating the sustainable use of ocean resources, promoting maritime trade, and driving economic growth through innovative hydrographic solutions, the Agency is central to our blue economy agenda,” he stated.

He explained that discussions during the meeting centred on practical measures to expand Nigeria’s hydrographic capacity with the goal of improving navigational safety, reinforcing maritime security and promoting sustainable maritime development.

Dr. Matawalle further expressed confidence that with existing policy frameworks already in place, Nigeria is well positioned to assume a leading role in advancing hydrographic development across West Africa.

In his remarks, Rear Admiral O.O. Fadahunsi commended the Minister for what he described as visionary leadership and pledged the Agency’s readiness to deepen collaboration with relevant ministries, departments and agencies.

He assured that the National Hydrographic Agency would continue to pursue an integrated approach aimed at strengthening hydrographic resilience and delivering improved outcomes for the maritime sector.