AFN Sustains High-Tempo Operations Nationwide, Records Major Security Gains – DHQ

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have sustained an intensified tempo of coordinated military operations across the country throughout December, recording significant successes against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has said.

In a statement signed by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, in Abuja weekly press briefing on ongoing military operations for the period ending December 22, 2025, the DHQ disclosed that troops operating across all theatres disrupted criminal networks, neutralised hostile elements, recovered large quantities of arms and ammunition, rescued abducted civilians and restored relative calm to several troubled communities.

According to the statement, these operations were conducted in collaboration with other security agencies and local stakeholders, in strict adherence to rules of engagement and respect for human rights. The AFN also assured Nigerians of a strong security presence throughout the festive season to safeguard lives, property and critical infrastructure nationwide.

North East: Terrorist Attacks Repelled, Logistics Networks Disrupted

Under Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI, troops denied Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists freedom of action across the region. Notably, soldiers repelled an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base in Mairari after detecting and neutralising two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), preventing penetration of the base.

Several terrorists were killed in the encounter, while weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, communication equipment, combat gear and medical supplies were recovered. Troops also safely detonated an Improvised Explosive Device (IED) along the Damboa–Komala axis and intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle conveying suspected terrorist logistics along the Maiduguri–Bama Road. Two suspects were arrested, alongside food items, cash and mobile phones.

Additionally, seven terrorist collaborators and informants were apprehended, three kidnapped victims were rescued, and several terrorist camps were destroyed, paving the way for the resettlement of displaced persons.

North West: Bandits Neutralised, Victims Rescued

In the North West, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA sustained offensive operations across Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina and Niger States. Between December 12 and 17, troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested eight suspects and rescued four kidnapped victims.

Weapons, vehicles, livestock and household items were recovered during the operations. In a related development, troops intercepted two passengers at Kadage in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State with N9 million intended as ransom for the release of six abducted children. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the kidnappers.

North Central: Criminals Arrested, Dozens Rescued

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau and Kaduna States responded swiftly to distress calls and conducted offensive operations in multiple local government areas, neutralising terrorists, arresting 16 criminals and rescuing 19 kidnapped victims.

Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded notable successes across Benue, Nasarawa, Taraba, Kogi and Kwara States. Troops arrested eight suspected kidnappers and rescued 43 victims during raids on hideouts and responses to kidnapping incidents. Arms, ammunition and motorcycles were recovered.

In Edo State, troops also apprehended two impostors who were impersonating the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General W. Shaibu. The suspects are currently undergoing investigation.
South-South: Oil Theft Foiled, Illegal Refineries Destroyed

In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE troops thwarted oil theft valued at over N15.6 million, recovering stolen crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Three illegal refining sites were destroyed and five oil thieves arrested.

Further operations in Bayelsa, Rivers and Delta States led to the arrest of nine suspects, including three gunrunners found in possession of arms and ammunition.

South East: IPOB/ESN Suspects Arrested
Troops of Operation UDO KA in the South East arrested four suspected criminals linked to IPOB/ESN activities during operations in Anambra State between December 12 and 15.

Military Reaffirms Commitment
The Defence Headquarters reaffirmed the AFN’s resolve to sustain operational momentum, adapt to evolving security challenges and protect civilians through professionalism and inter-agency cooperation.

The military called on Nigerians to support ongoing security efforts, stressing the need for collective responsibility in restoring peace and stability.

The DHQ also commended troops for their bravery and professionalism, particularly in the successful rescue of the remaining students of St. Mary School, Papiri, Niger State.