The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) recorded significant operational successes across multiple theatres between April 17 and 23, 2026 intensifying efforts to combat terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities nationwide.

This was contained in a Press statement signed by the Director Media Operations, DMO, Major General Micheal Onoja in Abuja.

According to him, troops under Operation Hadin Kai in the North East sustained pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP elements. On April 23, soldiers repelled a major terrorist attack along the Maiduguri–Damaturu Road in Yobe State, neutralizing 21 insurgents and recovering a cache of weapons, including rifles, machine guns, and explosives. Earlier operations in Borno and Yobe states led to the killing of several terrorists, the destruction of their movements, and the recovery of arms and motorcycles.

Troops also rescued nine captives who escaped from terrorist enclaves in the Mandara Mountains. A subsequent attempt by insurgents to recapture the victims was foiled. In a separate operation, a suspected logistics supplier transporting concealed fuel intended for terrorists was arrested in Geidam, Yobe State.

In the North West, Operation Fansan Yamma troops conducted ambushes and patrols across Kaduna, Zamfara, and surrounding states. Security forces dismantled terrorist camps, intercepted logistics supplies, and rescued kidnapped victims. Notably, troops intercepted a courier transporting materials suspected to be used for improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

Operations in the North Central region under Operations Savannah Shield and Enduring Peace resulted in multiple arrests of suspected terrorists and collaborators. Troops destroyed illegal camps and mining sites in Niger State and rescued kidnapped victims in Kwara State. Several suspects linked to arms trafficking and violent crimes were apprehended across Plateau, Kaduna, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, with large quantities of ammunition and weapons recovered.

In Benue and Kogi states, Operation Whirl Stroke troops successfully rescued several kidnapped victims in separate incidents, including 13 individuals in Ohimini Local Government Area. Troops also dismantled criminal camps and intercepted suspected collaborators.

Meanwhile, in the South-South region, Operation Delta Safe forces carried out successful rescue missions in Edo State, freeing kidnapped civilians who were abandoned by fleeing abductors. Troops also recovered large volumes of illegally refined petroleum products in Akwa Ibom State. Additional clearance operations led to the arrest of seven suspected criminals and the recovery of weapons and illicit drugs.

In the South East, Operation Udo Ka targeted members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing. Troops arrested multiple suspects linked to attacks on security personnel and other violent crimes in Enugu and Ebonyi states.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended troops for their professionalism and resilience, urging sustained momentum in ongoing operations. He also expressed condolences over the death of a soldier, Corporal Abubakar Sadiq, who was killed in action during the period.

The military reiterated its call for public cooperation, urging citizens to provide timely and credible intelligence to support ongoing security efforts. It also appealed to the media to maintain responsible and factual reporting in the interest of national security.

The AFN reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives, protecting national infrastructure, and preserving Nigeria’s territorial integrity.