AFN Sustains High, Intense Operations against Terrorists, Criminals, Others Nationwide
…Even as troops captured large cache of arms, RPG tubes, locally made guns, IED making materials.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has released details of troops relentless operations against Insurgents, terrorists, criminals and economic saboteurs, between 9 and 13 February, 2026.
This was contained in a statement signed by Major General Michael Onoja, Director Defence Media Operations, and made available to Journalists in Abuja
He noted that during this period, troops of the AFN, in close collaboration with relevant security and intelligence agencies, sustained a high operational tempo across various theatres in furtherance of national security objectives.
General Onoja maintained that “the Armed Forces remain resolute in the execution of their constitutional mandate, with a deliberate focus on safeguarding the lives and welfare of our personnel while upholding the principles of professionalism, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.
“Accordingly, we are committed to providing timely, accurate, and transparent information on our activities as operations evolve across all operational theatres.
“Currently, our forces are conducting a blend of kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at neutralizing identified threats, protecting citizens, and restoring normalcy in affected areas.
“These efforts are intended to create a safe and secure environment that supports economic activities, social development, and lasting peace nationwide.
“Overall, troops recovered large quantities of various arms, such as automatic weapons, Rocket Propelled Guns (RPG) tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated guns and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) making materials.
“Also, caches of live cartridges and assorted ammunition were recovered.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted the operational successes of JTF NE OPHK, JTF NW OPFY and the 2 JTF operations in the NC; OPEP and OPWS. Thereafter, the successes recorded by JTF SS OPDS and JTF SE OPUK will be highlighted.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH EAST OPERATION HADIN KAI
During the week, troops of the Joint Task Force North East, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), sustained operational momentum by effectively denying Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists’ freedom of action across the North East region. Ground forces, operating in close coordination with the Air Component, hybrid forces and local security groups, conducted aggressive, intelligence-driven operations throughout the theatre.
These operations resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists, the arrest of their informants and logistics suppliers, and the recovery of arms and equipment, leading to the dismantling of key terrorist networks.
The sustained pressure created a more secure environment, facilitating the safe resettlement of displaced persons.
During the week, troops conducted offensive operations in Bama, Biu, Chibok, Damboa, Guzamala, Jere, Konduga, Mafa and Mobbar LGAs of Borno State as well as Damaturu LGA of Yobe State.
Operations were also conducted in Gombi and Maiha LGAs of Adamawa State. During the encounters, scores of the terrorists were neutralized, 8 of them were arrested, while 11 kidnapped victims were rescued.
The suspects and weapons recovered are in troops custody for further action.
In a related development, troops encountered terrorists in an ambush attack at terrorists enclave in Komala Village, Jere LGA of Borno State on 9 February 2026.
During the encounters, dozens of the terrorists were neutralized, while weapons, motorcycles, bicycles, household items, cosmetic, wears and clothing materials were recovered
Air Interdiction Missions. The Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI in conjunction with Nigerian Army Aviation, while conducting air reconnaissance, across several locations within Borno State observed movement of about 7 terrorists and trailed them to Chongolo Kura in Bama LGA of Borno State.
Similarly, at Abbagajere Village in Damboa LGA of Borno State, 3 terrorists were observed entering an enclave. Targets were acquired and multiple precision strikes were carried out.
Battle Damage Assessment revealed that terrorists were neutralized, while their living structures were destroyed.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH WEST OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA
Troops of OPFY sustained operational tempo throughout the period. During several fire fights, significant number of terrorists were neutralised while kidnapped victims were rescued.
Significantly, between 8 – 12 February 2026, offensive operations were conducted in Kaura Namoda, Maradun, Maru and Tsafe LGAs of Zamfara State as well as Doguwa and Kafur LGAs of Kano and Katsina States respectfully.
During the operations, several terrorists were neutralised, 4 of them were apprehended, while 2 kidnapped victims were rescued. Weapons, vehicles and livestock were recovered from them. Recovered weapons are in troops’ custody for further action.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION SAVANNAH SHIELD
Troops of Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD conducted offensive operations covering Kwara and Niger states and denied terrorists freedom of action in the region. Significantly, they conducted operations in Borgu and Mokwa LGAs of Niger State.
Others are Baruten, Edu and Ifelodun LGAs of Kwara State. In the cause of their operations, troops identified terrorist’s check points and hibernating areas and dislodged them.
Troops continue to respond to information of the movement and activities of the terrorist in the area.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION ENDURING PEACE
Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau State responded to distress calls on terrorists’ activities in several sectors.
During the period under review, troops conducted offensive operations in Jos North, Mangu, Riyom and Wase LGAs of Plateau State as well as Jamaá and Kaura LGAs of Kaduna State. During the firefights, several terrorists were neutralized, while a wanted kidnapper identified as Kamaru Chawai and 5 others were arrested and 4 kidnapped victims were rescued.
Arms and ammunition were recovered from them. Recovered weapons are in troops’ custody for further action.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION WHIRL STROKE
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE recorded some successes in their Area of Operational Responsibility.
During the week, troops conducted several offensive operations in Gwer West, Kwande and Otukpo LGAs of Benue State as well as Ardo Kola and Wukari LGAs of Taraba State.
Similarly, they responded to distress calls on kidnapping activities in Lokoja, Okene and Yagba West LGAs of Kogi. During these operations, troops arrested 11 terrorists, while 9 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms and ammunition, motorcycles and other items were also recovered from them.
Also, troops while on fighting patrols within the Adonkolo and Kakanda Forests in Lokoja LGAs of Kogi State captured Batijjo’s Camp and recovered cache of arms and ammunitions, while over 13 kidnapped victims were rescued.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH-SOUTH OPERATION DELTA SAFE
In Operation DELTA SAFE theatre, troops foiled significant oil theft during the week. Additionally, they discovered and destroyed 9 illegal refining sites and arrested 11 oil thieves and other criminals, while assorted arms and ammunition were also recovered. Relatedly, between 8 – 12 February 2026, troops conducted offensive operations in Ahoada and Etche LGAs of Rivers State as well as Yenagoa LGA of Bayelsa State.
During the operations, troops arrested a wanted notorious IPOB/ESN terrorists identified as Eze Adeire (aka Ikuku) and 4 others.
Also a notorious terrorist’s gunrunner was apprehended with several locally fabricated rifles in Ahoada LGA of Rivers State.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA
Troops of Operation UDO KA conducted offensive operations across Abia, Anambra, Cross River, Ebony, Enugu and Imo states.
Significantly, Cordon and Search operation was conducted in forested areas of Amasiri, Ezekwu Ohaechara and Obi Communities in Afikpo North and Afikpo South LGAs of Ebonyi State.
During the operations, 8 terrorists were arrested, while arms and ammunition were also recovered from them.
In conclusion, General Onoja vi wowed that troops of the AFN remain committed to denying terrorists and other criminal elements the freedom to operate anywhere within the country.
According to him, the successes recorded in ongoing operations reflect the unwavering determination, resilience, and sacrifice of troops, who continue to work tirelessly in defence of the nation’s peace and security.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede on behalf of all Service Chiefs commends the courage, professionalism, and dedication displayed by personnel across all theatres of operations.
These commendable efforts underscore the Armed Forces’ resolve to protect lives and property while supporting national stability and development.
He assures all Nigerians of its sustained commitment to intensifying operations, strengthening inter-agency collaboration, and adapting strategies as required to address emerging security challenges.
