The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres of operation between February 13 and 19, 2026, neutralising scores of terrorists, rescuing kidnapped victims, and recovering large caches of arms and ammunition.
The statement was signed on Friday by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations in Abuja stating that troops sustained coordinated, intelligence-driven operations aimed at degrading terrorist networks, combating banditry, and curbing oil theft nationwide.
North-East: Troops Intensify Pressure on Boko Haram, ISWAP
In the North-East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI carried out offensive operations across Borno and Yobe states, targeting strongholds of Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters.
According to the military, operations conducted in Abadam, Bama, Biu, Damboa, Gwoza, Kukawa and Konduga Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Borno State, as well as Damaturu, Geidam and Gujba LGAs of Yobe State, led to the neutralisation of several terrorists. Seven suspects were arrested, while three kidnapped victims were rescued.
In a related development, troops intercepted five suspects along the Maiduguri–Magumeri axis allegedly in possession of ₦37 million in cash. The suspects reportedly claimed the money was meant for distribution to vulnerable communities on behalf of the international NGO, Action Against Hunger. The military said investigations are ongoing to determine the legitimacy of the funds and rule out possible links to terrorist financing.
Similarly, troops acting on intelligence in Madagali LGA of Adamawa State arrested a suspect identified as Mallam Dauda Usman Gubula. Items recovered from him included two aerial drones and 20 solar power banks.
North-West: 26 Kidnap Victims Rescued
Under Operation FANSAN YAMMA, troops conducted aggressive operations across Zamfara, Kano, Katsina, Kaduna, Kebbi and Sokoto states.
Nine suspected terrorists were arrested, while 26 kidnapped victims were rescued and reunited with their families. Security forces also recovered weapons, vehicles and rustled livestock.
The Zamfara State Government also donated 25 Armoured Personnel Carriers to support ongoing operations in the region.
North-Central: Multiple Arrests, Victims Freed
In the North-Central region, troops under Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD carried out operations in Kwara and Niger states. Five suspected terrorists were arrested and seven kidnapped victims rescued. Arms and ammunition were also recovered.
On February 16, troops responded to an attack on Motoku village in Patigi LGA of Kwara State, recovering two stolen motorcycles and forcing the attackers to retreat into Roguwa Forest.
Meanwhile, Operation ENDURING PEACE troops in Plateau and parts of Kaduna State neutralised several terrorists, arrested three suspects, and rescued six kidnapped victims during operations in Riyom, Jos North, Bassa, Jos South, Barkin Ladi and Mangu LGAs.
In Kaura LGA of Kaduna State, troops foiled a kidnapping attempt at Yardi village, rescuing five abducted civilians after engaging the kidnappers in a gun battle.
Similarly, troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE operating in Benue, Taraba, Kogi and Nasarawa states arrested 11 suspected terrorists and rescued four kidnapped victims.
Among those arrested was Aisha Auta, identified as the wife of a wanted terrorist kingpin. Troops also recovered arms, ammunition and motorcycles during clearance operations.
South-South: Oil Theft Sites Destroyed, Drug Suspects Arrested
In the Niger Delta region, troops under Operation DELTA SAFE intensified the crackdown on crude oil theft and illegal refining.
Four illegal refining sites were dismantled, while five suspected oil thieves were arrested. Security operatives also recovered arms and ammunition.
In separate operations in Delta and Cross River states, three suspects were arrested with quantities of methamphetamine, popularly known as “ICE,” valued at over ₦5 million.
South-East: Offensive Against Terrorist Camps
Troops of Operation UDO KA sustained cordon-and-search operations in Ebonyi and Imo states.
Eight suspected terrorists were arrested in Ebonyi State, while weapons and ammunition were recovered. In Imo State, troops conducting a joint patrol reportedly neutralised members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), recovering assault rifles during the encounter.
Military Reaffirms Commitment
The Defence Headquarters reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and maintaining national security.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their sustained efforts and urged citizens to continue providing credible information through the toll-free emergency line 193.
The military assured Nigerians that operations would remain proactive and decisive in neutralising threats to peace and stability across the country.
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