The Nigerian Army has intensified operations against terrorists, insurgents, and economic criminals nationwide, recording notable successes over the past 48 hours. The operations follow orders from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, to “completely annihilate terrorists and dismantle all networks of criminality.” Okay News reports that these moves are part of a renewed strategy to reclaim territories affected by insurgency.
In a statement on Sunday posted on the Army’s official X handle, the force reported that seven terrorists were neutralised, 27 suspects arrested, and arms, ammunition, and stolen crude oil recovered in coordinated operations across the country. Okay News reports that the recovered materials include both firearms and stolen crude, highlighting the Army’s simultaneous targeting of terrorism and oil theft networks.
In the North East, Sector 3 troops under Operation HADIN KAI carried out a precision cordon-and-search operation in Anguwan Church, Monguno, Borno State, arresting 12 individuals linked to terror networks. Separately, 192 Battalion ambushed ISWAP/JAS fighters along the Gwoza–Limankara axis, killing three terrorists and recovering an AK-47 rifle with five rounds. Troops of 25 Brigade, Damboa, also neutralised a terrorist attempting reconnaissance under false pretences. Okay News reports that these operations were carried out with support from local intelligence networks.
Operations in the North West and North Central regions were also successful. Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Kaduna State raided a terrorist hideout in Kauru Local Government Area, killing two insurgents responsible for attacks on civilians. In Plateau State, four suspects linked to the murder of two civilians in Riyom Local Government Area were arrested, while Operation FANSAN YAMMA in Niger State eliminated a terrorist scout and recovered a motorcycle, mobile phone, and other items. Okay News reports that citizens in these regions have started providing more actionable intelligence to security agencies.
The Army reported further victories in the South-South region. In Akwa Ibom State, 2 Brigade troops arrested three illegal miners involved in black sand trading, while 144 Battalion in Abia State uncovered an illegal crude oil refining site containing over 1,000 litres of stolen oil. Similarly, 34 Artillery Brigade discovered another refining hub in Ohaji/Egbema, Imo State, seizing six drums of stolen crude oil and a canoe. In Delta State, 90 Amphibious Battalion detained three suspects, including an impostor in military uniform, recovering fake military ranks, mobile phones, and charms. The suspects are under investigation. Okay News reports that the crackdown is part of a broader initiative to curb illegal oil operations and restore law and order.
The Army emphasised that these nationwide, coordinated strikes demonstrate its renewed combat readiness and determination to confront threats to national security under Lieutenant General Shaibu’s leadership. The force also reassured Nigerians that this phase of operations marks a turning point in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and crude oil theft. Okay News reports that citizens are being encouraged to actively participate in intelligence sharing to support these efforts.
“The Army remains committed to restoring peace, protecting citizens, and defending Nigeria’s sovereignty. The public is encouraged to provide credible and timely information to support military operations,” the statement concluded.
