The Defence Headquarters announced that, during the first week of 2025, troops engaged in counterterrorism operations successfully neutralized 109 terrorists and apprehended 81 suspects.
Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Buba Edward, provided this update in a statement issued on Friday, reinforcing the military’s ongoing commitment to its operations against insurgents and their allies across Nigeria.
In a detailed breakdown of the operations, Buba reported, “During the week under review, troops neutralised 109 terrorists, arrested 81 suspects, and rescued 43 kidnapped hostages.”
Focusing on the operations conducted across various theatres, Buba highlighted that troops of Operation Hadin Kai had neutralized 64 terrorists, arrested 28 suspects, and rescued 14 kidnapped victims.
He also provided information about an airstrike carried out by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
On January 3, 2025, the air force conducted an air interdiction mission at Alawa Forest, located in Shiroro LGA, Niger State.
The assessment following the operation revealed significant damage, with numerous terrorists eliminated and their structures, as well as logistics, destroyed.
In total, Operation FANSAN YAMMA’s forces neutralized 21 terrorists, apprehended 24 individuals, and rescued 5 hostages.
Buba further discussed activities in the Niger Delta, reporting that six individuals involved in oil theft were arrested, and crude oil theft worth ₦618,756,470 was averted.
He added, “In the SS, troops foiled oil theft amounting to an estimated ₦618,756,470. Additionally, 10 illegal refining sites, 12 boats, 10 crude oil cooking ovens, and other infrastructure used in illegal operations were destroyed.”
He called on the public to remain vigilant and continue supporting security forces, emphasizing that the military will remain dedicated to protecting the nation.
Buba concluded by assuring citizens that the military’s operational success would continue to improve, stating, “Troops are continuing their successful operational engagements. As a result, citizens will continue to see the increasing effectiveness and efficiency of the armed forces.”
