AFN Continues Nationwide Campaign Against Terrorists, Bandits, Kidnappers, Economic Saboteurs With Significant Operational Successes

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has disclosed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has recorded significant and far-reaching operational successes across all operational theatres during the month of June as well as Second Quarter 2026.

A statement made by Major General Michael Onoja, Director Defence Media Operations, gave insights into the activities of the AFN in the month of June and Second Quarter 2026 during the press briefing on 1 July 2026.

General Onoja informed the journalists that through sustained coordinated operations, employing strategic joint land patrols, close air support, and intelligence-led engagements, troops systematically degraded the operational capabilities of Boko Haram, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed wing, the Eastern Security Network (ESN), as well as kidnapping syndicates, illegal oil bunkering cartels, and cross-border arms traffickers.

The cumulative operational records of ongoing counter-terrorism, counter-banditry, counter-kidnapping, economic sabotage interdiction, and anti-proliferation of small arms and light weapons collectively reflects the enduring commitment of a professional and resolute force dedicated to restoring peace, stability, and confidence across every geopolitical zone of the nation.

The statement provided a comprehensive overview of operational progress, highlight key achievements, and outline ongoing efforts to address evolving security dynamics across the country.

He also shared insights into measures being implemented to consolidate gains and enhance operational effectiveness in all theatres.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH EAST OPERATION HADIN KAI

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI maintained sustained kinetic pressure on Boko Haram and ISWAP networks across Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe States, executing high-impact clearance operations, targeted rescues, and decisive interdictions of terrorist supply chains throughout the month.

Troops neutralized 76 terrorist fighters, arrested 97 terrorists, rescued 465 kidnapped victims, and facilitated the surrender of 11 insurgents and their families.

The landmark operation of the quarter was executed on 6 June 2026, when troops conducted a highly sophisticated multi-axis raid across the Mandara Mountains in Gwoza LGA, Borno State, rescuing 360 civilians, predominantly women and children who had been held in captivity since their abduction from Ngoshe community on 3 March 2026; all survivors were evacuated to the General Hospital, Gwoza, for urgent medical treatment.

On 21 June 2026, troops evacuated 27 surrendered terrorists and their family members from the Jemu area, Kukawa LGA, Borno State, airlifting them to Maiduguri for medical attention and processing, while on 24 June 2026, 53 civilians and 8 hijacked vehicles were rescued along the Buratai-Kamuya road. Troops also repelled several attacks during the month.

On 18 June 2026, troops repelled a coordinated terrorist attack on multiple locations in Buratai District, Biu LGA, Borno State, recovered an AK-47 rifle and over 200 rounds of assorted ammunition. On 27 June 2026, troops foiled a planned terrorist attack on Rigange community in Lamurde LGA, Adamawa State, neutralised one terrorist and recovered 3 AK-47 rifles, 4 magazines, and 26 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition.

On 28 June 2026, 5 suspected kidnappers at Magumeri LGA, Borno State, were neutralised after attempting to snatch weapons from troops during a weapons recovery operation.

Also, on 29 June 2026, troops conducted a fighting patrol in Gundili general area of Lamurde LGA of Adamawa State, and engaged suspected Tsobo militia members.

Following the encounter, troops recovered three AK-47 rifles, two Dane guns, seven AK-47 magazines, and 190 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition, while maintaining dominance in the area to prevent any security breach.

Beyond kinetic engagements, troops systematically dismantled terrorist support infrastructure through aggressive combat operations and logistics interdiction across the theatre. Surrendered individuals continued to come forward across the period; including two teenage girls at Pulka, Gwoza LGA on 19 June 2026, a woman and her infant at Cross Kauwa, Kukawa LGA on 26 June 2026, and 8 additional escapees including a widow of a Civilian Joint Task Force member on 21 June 2026.

Critical intelligence breakthroughs on 14 June 2026 led to the arrest of suspected terrorist collaborator Abubakar Usman (alias “Buba”) at the GSS IDP Camp, Gwoza, whose confessions guided a subsequent operation on 16 June 2026 at Izge community, Gwoza LGA, resulting in the apprehension of Modu Auta, a Sambisa Forest-based collaborator who further exposed additional local facilitators currently being actively tracked. On 11 June 2026, 11 suspected collaborators were intercepted in two vehicles at Kekeno, Kukawa LGA, Borno State, further degrading terrorist intelligence and logistics networks. On 22 June 2026, two suspected terrorist spies were neutralised at Banki, Bama LGA, Borno State, after being observed crossing the border fence into Nigeria to monitor troop movements.

On 29 June 2026, following a terrorist attack and the abduction of students from Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State, troops swiftly responded and launched a pursuit operation against the attackers.

Troops subsequently made contact with the terrorists and successfully defeated them, resulting in the rescue of seven school children and a class teacher, as well as the recovery of seven motorcycles.

However, one soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force paid the ultimate price during the encounter.

Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 484 terrorist fighters, arrested 370 terrorists, rescued 595 kidnapped victims, and facilitated the surrender of 38 insurgents and their families.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH WEST OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA conducted decisive operations against terrorists and criminal networks across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara States, recording multiple neutralisations and significant arms recoveries throughout the period.

During the month, troops neutralized 33 terrorists, arrested 165 terrorists and rescued 51 kidnapped victims. Clearance and patrol operations across Faskari and Jibia LGAs in Katsina State; Birnin Magaji, Maru, Zurmi, Shinkafi, and Gummi LGAs in Zamfara State; and Dandi and Arewa Dandi LGAs in Kebbi State resulted in the neutralisation of at least 19 terrorists and the recovery of numerous firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, motorcycles, an RPG launcher tube, and IED chargers.

Notably, on 22 June 2026, troops neutralised 4 terrorists at Ginchawa village, Matazu LGA, Katsina State, recovered 2 PKT machine guns, an AK-47 magazine, 75 rounds of linked (NATO) ammunition, and a camouflage uniform. On 23 June 2026, an ambush in Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State, yielded a PKT machine gun, 2 motorcycles, chains used on kidnap victims, and 8 pairs of military uniforms, indicative of criminal efforts to impersonate security personnel.

On 26, 2 suspected terrorist collaborators were arrested at Wanke in Gusau LGA, Zamfara State, with incriminating materials recovered from their mobile phones, while on 27 June 2026, 2 terrorists were neutralised and 2 AK-47 rifles captured at Sabarumawa, Arewa Dandi LGA, Kebbi State.

Troops also achieved significant gains in arms interdiction and rescue operations across the theatre. On 4 June 2026, a notorious terrorist kingpin was arrested while concealing himself among traders at the Shinkafi weekly market, Shinkafi LGA, Zamfara State. On 5, at a snap vehicle checkpoint on the Gusau-Shinkafi route, Zamfara State, a vehicle was intercepted and a locally fabricated 9mm pistol, 1,002 rounds of 7.62mm x 39mm ammunition, and additional pistol rounds concealed in a sack of millet were recovered; the suspect, Mallam Mustapha Abubakar, was arrested, and troops subsequently tracked down and apprehended the intended arms recipient at Tupa village, Shinkafi LGA.

On 20 June 2026, coordinated covert operations led to the arrest of 3 suspects with demonstrated links to terrorist activities during the arrival and processing of a pilgrim flight at Gusau International Airport, Zamfara State.

Rescue operations further reinforced the theatre’s achievements: between 12 and 15 June 2026, 7 kidnapped victims who had escaped captivity in the Bagega Forest were rescued at Gwashi, Bukuyyum LGA, Zamfara State, 2 abducted passengers were liberated in Sanga LGA, Kaduna State, and 3 abducted civilians were rescued in Zurmi, Zamfara State, collectively reflecting the multi-dimensional impact of sustained operations in the zone.

On 28 June 2026, three logistics suppliers were arrested at Kagarko LGA, Kaduna State, in possession of 69 jerrycans of fuel destined for terrorist elements and were subsequently handed over to the Department of State Services. Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 77 terrorist fighters, arrested 210 terrorists, rescued 153 kidnapped victims, and facilitated the surrender of 1 terrorist.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION SAVANNAH SHIELD

Troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD conducted targeted offensive operations that delivered measurable security gains across Kwara, Niger, Ogun, and Oyo States.

During the month, troops arrested 19 terrorists and rescued 4 kidnapped victims. On 30 May 2026, troops executed a fighting patrol to Gulbi community in Borgu LGA, Niger State, and upon withdrawal effectively repelled a terrorist ambush between Gulbi and Sabon Gari community, neutralised scores of terrorists and recovered 15 motorcycles and 253 rounds of 7.62mm (NATO) ammunition; multiple IEDs planted along the withdrawal route were successfully detonated in situ by troops.

On 17 June 2026, troops engaged approximately 20 motorcycle-mounted terrorists at Dnakawala and Ghoghola villages in Shiroro LGA, Niger State.

Further operations during the period yielded a series of high-value arrests that significantly disrupted terrorist networks across the North Central region.

On 4 June 2026, a high-value terrorist informant who had long been on the security forces’ watch list was arrested at Kara Market, Wawa, Borgu LGA, Niger State, and is currently undergoing detailed interrogation.

On 6 June 2026, 3 suspected terrorists and informants were arrested during operations within the Wawa-Doro axis in Borgu LGA, Niger State, with a recovered mobile phone containing photographs of a beheaded individual dated 2 May 2026 and recorded terrorist propaganda.

On 16 June 2026, following sustained surveillance, Mrs. Hafsatu Alh Bello was arrested near Ndeji town, Edu LGA, Kwara State, the wife of notorious terrorist kingpin Auta Ilori.

Her preliminary interrogation provided significant intelligence regarding her husband’s criminal network.

On 17 June 2026, 2 additional suspects whose links to the foiled kidnapping of school children at Iluke-Bunu in Kabba Bunu LGA, Kogi State were confirmed were arrested at Ndeji village, Edu LGA, Kwara State. On 16 June 2026, 4 suspected terrorists were also arrested at a Correctional Farm Centre in Ogbomoso South LGA, Oyo State, with preliminary profiling revealing incriminating photographs and confessions of direct involvement in terrorist activities.

In a related development, on 28 June 2026, troops of Chikanda arrested two suspected kidnappers’ informants at Blue Hotel, Chikanda, Baruten LGA of Kwara State.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspects were gathering intelligence to support a kidnap operation targeting community members.

The suspects remain in custody for further investigation and necessary action. Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 24 terrorist fighters, arrested 48 terrorists, and rescued 38 kidnapped victims.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION ENDURING PEACE

Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE recorded consistent successes in disrupting kidnapping networks and restoring the security of transit corridors in Southern Kaduna and Plateau States.

During the month, troops neutralized 5 terrorists, arrested 87 terrorists and rescued 18 kidnapped victims, recovered arms and ammunition in multiple targeted raids.

On 1 June 2026, troops patrolling Ungwan Gora village in Sanga LGA, Kaduna State, discovered an abandoned passenger vehicle on the highway and launched an immediate search-and-rescue operation, successfully rescuing 5 kidnapped passengers and evacuated 2 injured victims to General Hospital, Gwantu.

On 5, troops recovered 6 passengers from an abandoned vehicle along the Hawan Kibo-Rafin Sayin road in Riyom LGA, Plateau State, following reports of abductors blocking the route. On 10, 2 passengers were rescued at Kassa village in Barkin Ladi LGA, Plateau State, after breaking free from their abductors, while a joint military sweep in Kafi Habu Fulani hamlets in the same LGA on the same date led to the arrest of 2 wanted kidnappers positively identified by a former victim.

On 21, a suspected terrorist intercepted at a checkpoint in Gwagwalada Area Council, Federal Capital Territory, was found in possession of 3 mobile phones; forensic examination revealed photographs of suspects brandishing arms, ammunition, and large sums of cash, providing compelling evidence of his involvement in terrorist activities.

Complementing rescue operations, targeted patrols and arrests yielded multiple weapons recoveries and further disruption of criminal networks.

On 7 June 2026, a cordon operation at Mungi village in Mangu LGA, Plateau State, resulted in the arrest of a suspected kidnapper’s informant and the recovery of a concealed pistol from his residential compound.

On 13 June 2026, a suspected kidnapper and cattle rustler was apprehended at Hurti village in Bokkos LGA, Plateau State. On 14 June 2026, Mr. Danjuma Yusuf, a former police inspector dismissed from service was arrested at Makera in Riyom LGA, Plateau State, in possession of 2 locally fabricated pistols, 167 rounds of 9mm ammunition, and photographs of himself in police uniform.

On 15 June 2026, stop-and-search operations in Jaba LGA, Kaduna State, led to the arrest of Mr. Francis Yakubu, who was found carrying a loaded locally fabricated pistol and an AK-47 magazine loaded with 9 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, with investigation ongoing to unravel the wider criminal networks from which they sourced their weapons.

Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 32 terrorist fighters, arrested 171 terrorists, and rescued 86 kidnapped victims.

JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION WHIRL STROKE

Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE demonstrated sustained kinetic operations against armed groups, kidnappers, and criminal networks across Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, recording significant kinetic and arms interdiction successes throughout the period.

During the month, troops neutralized 3 terrorists, arrested 26 terrorists, and rescued 4 kidnapped victims.

On 30 May, one terrorist was neutralised at a known crossing point in Jakura community, Lokoja LGA, Kogi State, with an AK-47 rifle, 5 magazines, and 70 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition recovered.

On 1 June 2026, 5 suspects were arrested at an illegal mining site in Karu LGA, Nasarawa State, and 7 explosives, detonating cord, and associated equipment recovered.

On 21 June 2026, troops intercepted a vehicle on the Sokoto-Kano highway enroute to Kogi State and, despite the courier’s escape, recovered 2 AK-47 rifles, 9 magazines, 67 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition, 2 Beretta pistols, 2 Baofeng handheld radios, and 3 camouflage jackets, an interception that demonstrably disrupted a significant arms supply pipeline into the North Central zone.

On 22, a suspect found in possession of 174 rounds of 7.62mm (Special) ammunition was arrested along the Toto-Abaji road, Nasarawa State.

On 28 June 2026, troops at Tor Donga Yam Market, Katsina-Ala LGA, Benue State, neutralised 2 terrorists of one Konyo’s gang, identified as Dan Taraba and Gozolo, troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a damaged pistol with a magazine, and assorted ammunition.

The theatre recorded significant achievements in rescue operations and kinetic engagements across the region.

Mrs. Adekemi Idowu and her 6-month-old child were successfully rescued near Ijalu, Egbe in Yagba West LGA, Kogi State, following abduction from their residence.

On 7 June 2026, 13 passengers were rescued along the Lokoja-Obajana-Kabba road, Lokoja LGA, Kogi State, following a reported attack on commercial vehicles.

On 9, troops intercepted terrorists attempting to cross with kidnap victims at Ogbe, Yagba West LGA, Kogi State, rescuing a bar manager and a sales attendant who had been abducted in Ijumu LGA on 6 June 2026.

On 11, search operations at Ugbokolo in Okpokwu LGA, Benue State, yielded the rescue of several victims and the arrest of 3 suspected kidnappers.

Then on 16 June 2026, suspected terrorist informant Shu’aibu Isah was arrested at Adankolo Forest, Lokoja LGA, Kogi State, having confessed to providing target information on communities to criminal networks, and on 17 June 2026, 5 traumatised victims released by fleeing terrorists following an air strike on a criminal camp were rescued and immediately stabilised at a military medical facility at the same location.

Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 27 terrorist fighters, arrested 86 terrorists, and rescued 59 kidnapped victims.

JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH-SOUTH OPERATION DELTA SAFE

Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE conducted sustained operations across Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, and Rivers States, successfully dismantling kidnapping networks and neutralised individuals engaged in organised violent criminality.

During the month, troops neutralized 6 terrorists, arrested 53 terrorists, dismantled 7 illegal refining sites, and recovered over 308,515 litres of petroleum products. On 1 June 2026, a pre-emptive raid at Idumogbo community, Esan Central LGA, Edo State, resulted in the arrest of 4 kidnappers who had finalised plans to abduct a medical professional and the widow of a senior military officer.

On 2 June 2026, 2 suspects were arrested at Auchi, Etsako West LGA, Edo State, for the murder of a farmer during a failed abduction on 27 May 2026.

Five suspected kidnappers were arrested at Emuado, Esan West LGA, Edo State on 7 June; an active kidnapping syndicate member and a co-conspirator, Abdulsalim Adama, were apprehended at Ekpoma, Esan West LGA on 16 June; and wanted kidnapper Musadik Tanimu was arrested at Igo community, Ovia North-East LGA, Edo State on 17 June 2026.

On 22 June 2026, 2 suspected kidnappers were arrested at Ososo community, Akoko-Edo LGA, Edo State, following identification by Mrs. Success Sikiru, who had been abducted with her husband and infant on 11 May 2026 along the Egbetua-Okpella road, with syringes and drug tablets recovered from the suspects indicating a pattern of chemical incapacitation of victims.

On 23, Mr. Friday Agbiloson and Mr. Hammed Salisu were rescued from a kidnapper’s hideout in Uhiere Forest, Ovia North-East LGA, Edo State, and on 25 June 2026, 3 suspects were arrested at Balep community, Ikom LGA, Cross River State, with 2 Dane guns, a locally made pistol, a camouflage jacket, cartridges, and web equipment recovered.

Troops also recorded extensive disruption of illegal oil bunkering and economic sabotage activities, protecting critical national infrastructure across the Niger Delta region.

An illegal siphoning rig and connecting infrastructure were discovered and appropriately handled at Okarki Forest, Ahoada West LGA, Rivers State. On 7, a vehicle conveying approximately 1,200 litres of suspected illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO) was intercepted along the Eket-Etinan road, Eket LGA, Akwa Ibom State.

On 9 June 2026, a trampoline tank containing approximately 4,000 litres of stolen crude oil and illegal refining infrastructure was discovered at Amukpe, Sapele LGA, Delta State. On 15 June 2026, a commercial truck conveying approximately 45,000 litres of illegally purchased black oil was impounded along Stadium Road, Uyo LGA, Akwa Ibom State, and a large wooden boat laden with an estimated 20,000 litres of illegally refined AGO was intercepted at Buguma Base, Asari-Toru LGA, Rivers State; a major bunkering fuel dump was also raided in the Kpansia general area, Yenagoa LGA, Bayelsa State on 16 June 2026.

Between 19 and 22 June 2026, troops collectively intercepted approximately 103,500 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO at the APS Limited Jetty, Woji, Rivers State; 63,290 litres of suspected illegally refined AGO along the Orashi Forest corridor, Abua-Odua LGA, Rivers State; and approximately 45,000 litres of suspected adulterated AGO along the Itu-Calabar road, Itu LGA, Akwa Ibom State, collectively representing a major blow to organised illicit fuel distribution networks in the region.

Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 6 criminal elements, arrested 84 criminals, destroyed 12 illegal refining site and recovered over 464,268 litres of petroleum products including crude oil, Automotive Gas Oil, Dual Purpose Kerosene, and Premium Motor Spirit.

JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA

Troops of Operation UDO KA recorded landmark successes in decapitation operations against the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, the ESN, across Abia, Anambra, Enugu, and Imo States.

During the month, troops neutralized 6 criminals and arrested 39 suspects. On 9 June 2026, troops arrested 6 suspected IPOB/ESN members at Nenwe community, Aninri LGA, Enugu State; a follow-up exploitation of a suspected arms cache disguised as a piggery at Gariki, Enugu South LGA, yielded a General Purpose Machine Gun, an RPG-7 tube, 3 AK-47 rifles, 2 hand grenades, and 748 rounds of assorted ammunition.

On 10 June 2026, a raid on a suspected IPOB/ESN safe house at Agbani, Nkanu West LGA, Enugu State, recovered 8 AK-47 rifles, 12 magazines, 323 rounds of ammunition, and 10 pairs of IPOB uniforms. On 15 June 2026, suspected IPOB/ESN Commander Chima Ejiofor Emmanuel (alias “Moroco”) was apprehended at Life Care Maternity Hospital, Okigwe LGA, Imo State, where he was recuperating from surgery; preliminary investigation confirmed his active membership and participation in the group’s activities since 2025.

On 23 June 2026, troops made contact with IPOB/ESN members dressed in military and police uniforms along the Ogboji-Ajali road in Orumba South LGA, Anambra State, troops neutralized 3 terrorists and recovered a PKM machine gun, 2 AK-47 rifles, 4 improvised explosive devices, a vehicle, 10 Android mobile phones, and Nigeria Police uniforms.

Troops also recorded significant gains in dismantling criminal networks and disrupting illicit economic activities.

On 2 June 2026, troops rescued village chiefs held hostage at Ebeta Primary School, Ohaukwu LGA, Ebonyi State, troops arrested 3 suspects including the principal perpetrator, Mr. Osundu Ngbada (alias “Stain/Presido”), who were subsequently handed over to the Nigeria Police.

On 7 June 2026, a cordon-and-search operation at Amaetiti Iheshiowa, Arochukwu LGA, Abia State, led to the arrest of 3 suspects and the recovery of 7 Dane guns, 22 live cartridges, and a motorcycle.

On 10 June 2026, troops raided a suspected crude oil storage facility at Umuokpu, Ohaji/Egbema LGA, Imo State, and destroyed in situ 14 storage tanks and 30 jerrycans of suspected stolen crude oil and petroleum products.

On 11 June 2026, troops conducted patrol to a criminal hideout at Ogwulangwu community, Ohaozara LGA, Ebonyi State, where a locally made pistol, 2 cartridges, and One Million, Eight Hundred Thousand Naira (₦1,800,000) only, suspected to be proceeds of criminal activities were recovered.

On 14 June 2026, Mr. Emeka Kalu Chiowa confirmed as an IPOB/ESN logistician, critical to the proscribed group’s supply chain was arrested at Afara Isaima, Umuahia North LGA, Abia State, and is currently in custody undergoing further investigation.

Overall, during the quarter, troops neutralized 12 terrorist fighters, arrested 115 terrorists, and rescued 20 kidnapped victims.

AIR INTERDICTION

The Nigerian Air Force conducted critical air interdiction missions in support of ground operations during the period.

On 12 June 2026, following a technical fault aboard the Abuja-Kaduna train service, airpower assets provided sustained air cover patrolling the Kaduna-Abuja Main Supply Route, the adjoining rail track, and the Rijana and Katari general areas, before extending the mission to include a security patrol over the Nigerian Defence Academy perimeter in Kaduna, underscoring the operational flexibility and rapid-response capability of the AFN’s air component.

On 19 June 2026, airpower assets in the Kidandan area of Yadi Forest, Giwa LGA, Kaduna State, tracked terrorists on motorcycles to their forest hideout and executed a precision strike, neutralising the terrorists and their stores.

On 22 June 2026, in the same Kidandan area, 4 terrorists on motorcycles were tracked to a hideout and neutralised; local communities in Giwa and its environs in Kaduna State have testified to the effectiveness of these air interdiction missions, which have significantly disrupted the operational freedom of terrorist and bandit elements in the area.

On 29 June 2026, the Air Component conducted air strikes against terrorists in Niger and Kaduna States, neutralising several terrorists following a precision strike on a 200-strong terrorist convergence at the Dogon Dawa axis of Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State, with wounded survivors fleeing towards Kurugin Maidawa.

In Birnin Gwari Local Government Area, Kaduna State, the Air Component also intercepted and engaged three motorcycles conveying suspected terrorists en route to Kamuku Forest, foiling a planned reprisal attack on troops.

Both operations were executed following positive target identification and in full compliance with extant Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict, reinforcing the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s resolve to sustain offensive operations until lasting peace is restored across the North West.

CIVIL-MILITARY COOPERATION ACTIVITIES

In furtherance of the Chief of Defence Staff’s directive to fully integrate Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) activities into operational priorities nationwide, troops on 11 June 2026 conducted an agricultural support initiative at Dahuwa Primary School, Chamo District, Dutse LGA, Jigawa State, distributing 40 bags of fertiliser to selected farmers drawn from communities within the area.

Also, the Civil-Military Relations Branch of the Nigerian Air Force organized a one-day Civilian Harm Mitigation & Response (CHMR) seminar on 2 June 2026 for senior and strategic officers to enhance understanding of civilian protection principles in air operations.

The seminar emphasized that CHMR is a strategic enabler rather than an operational constraint, with discussions covering its origins, application in asymmetric conflicts, and the importance of compliance with International Humanitarian Law during military operations.

Relatively, the Nigerian Armed Forces supported the Delta State security summit in Asaba on 17 June 2026, which provided a platform for security stakeholders, community leaders, and civil society groups to strengthen cooperation in addressing emerging security challenges.

The engagement highlighted the need for citizens to move from being passive observers to active partners in security through timely intelligence sharing, especially against threats such as terrorism, kidnapping, cultism, and cybercrime.

Furthermore, between 2 – 4 June 2026, OPDS conducted mediation engagements between oil companies and host communities, including Chevron and Warri Kingdom Coastal Host Community Development Trust, SEEPCO and Onuebum communities, and Oando Resources with Diebu Satellite Communities, to address grievances relating to contracts, employment opportunities, community benefits, and outstanding obligations.

The mediation teams facilitated resolutions aimed at maintaining peaceful operations, improving community engagement, and ensuring compliance with agreed commitments.

Relatively, the Nigerian Army recorded multiple COAS Special Intervention CIMIC Project; on 1 June 2026, a newly constructed town hall at Ikot Udoabia Community, Etinan LGA of Akwa Ibom State was commissioned and handed over to the community.

Also, on 4 June 2026, a modern Primary Health Care Centre at Ikot Andem, Itam Community, Itu LGA of Akwa Ibom State was also commissioned. Similarly, on 20 June 2026, a newly constructed and fully equipped Emergency Paediatric Unit was commissioned and handed over at Yobe State Specialist Hospital, Potiskum. In the North East theater, Operation HADIN KAI, representatives from UN humanitarian agencies, including Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UN OCHA), World Food Programme (WFP), and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), paid courtesy visits to HQ Theatre Command to discuss ongoing humanitarian programmes and explore areas of collaboration.

Discussions focused on challenges in delivering relief materials such as food supplies and cholera response kits to affected communities in remote areas, with emphasis on the need for military support to enhance access.

In response, the Theatre Command provided ground and air escorts for humanitarian convoys, ensuring safe and timely delivery of assistance without security incidents. These activities reflects the AFN’s broader policy of complementing combat operations with deliberate community development and welfare support, aimed at strengthening civil-military relations, fostering community trust, and incentivising continued local cooperation with security operations.

CONCLUSION

The operational record for the month of June as well as Second Quarter 2026 stands as compelling testimony to the sustained professionalism, operational excellence, and unwavering resolve of troops across all operational theatres.

The AFN neutalised 129 terrorists and criminals; 486 terrorist/criminals arrested; 542 kidnapped civilians rescued; 11 insurgents surrendered; 130 arms and 5,538 rounds of ammunition recovered; 7 illegal refining sites dismantled; and over 308,515 litres of stolen petroleum products recovered.

For the Second Quarter 2026, the AFN neutalised 662 terrorists and criminals; 1,084 terrorist/criminals arrested; 951 kidnapped civilians rescued; 39 insurgents surrendered; 328 arms and 12,590 rounds of ammunition recovered; 12 illegal refining sites dismantled; and over 464,268 litres of stolen petroleum products recovered representing a significant degradation of criminal and terrorist operational capacity nationwide.

Notably, the rescue of over 360 civilians from unlawful captivity, including the landmark multi-axis rescue at the Mandara Mountains, Gwoza LGA, Borno State on 6 June 2026, the neutralisation of numerous hostile elements, the systematic dismantling of insurgent and criminal logistics networks, the recovery of substantial caches of arms and ammunition, the interception of significant volumes of illicitly refined petroleum products, and the targeted decapitation of IPOB/ESN command structures collectively represent a period of exceptional operational achievement across all geopolitical zones.

All operations were conducted in strict adherence to International Humanitarian Law, constitutional rules of engagement, and the AFN’s fundamental mandate to protect the life, property, and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, GCOR, commends the gallantry and discipline demonstrated by troops across all theatres during the period.

He extends his heartfelt appreciation to the civilian communities, the Civilian Joint Task Forces, local vigilante groups, and all security agencies whose cooperation and invaluable intelligence contributions have been critical enablers of the successes reported herein. General Oluyede reassures the Nigerian public and the international community that the Defence Headquarters
will sustain and intensify its operational tempo against all threats to national security until every theatre is stabilised, displaced persons are able to return to their homes, and every Nigerian can live in freedom, safety, and dignity.

The general public is encouraged to continue providing timely and accurate information to the nearest military formation or through the toll-free line 193.

You are assured that all information received will be treated with the utmost confidentiality.

The Chief of Defence Staff urges all Nigerians that national security is a shared civic responsibility.
God bless the AFN.