Troops Conduct Joint, Intelligence – Led Operations Target Criminal Networks, Other Threats To Public Safety
During the month of December, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) sustained a high tempo of coordinated military operations across all theatres, in line with the mandate to enhance national security and protect lives and property.
According to the Director Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja said this in a statement sighed that the Troops conducted joint and intelligence-led operations targeting criminal networks, and other threats to public safety. These operations resulted in significant disruption of hostile elements, recovery of arms and ammunition, rescue of abducted persons, and the restoration of relative calm in several affected communities. The AFN will continue to maintain a strong presence during the festive period, ensuring the safety of citizens and critical infrastructure nationwide.
The military continues to work closely with other security agencies and local stakeholders, while adhering strictly to the rules of engagement and respect for human rights. We commend the courage and professionalism of our personnel and appreciate the cooperation of the public. The AFN remains resolute in its commitment to defending the sovereignty, unity, and stability of the nation.
Overall, troops recovered large quantities of various arms, such as automatic weapons, Rocket Propelled Gun (RPG) tubes, machine guns, locally fabricated guns, and Improvised Explosive Devices (IED) making materials. Also, caches of live cartridges and assorted ammunition were recovered. As usual, this press release will highlight 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 discussed.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH EAST OPERATION HADIN KAI
In the Joint Task Force North East OPERATION HADIN KAI (OPHK) during the period, troops sustained operational momentum by denying Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists’ freedom of action in the North East region. Troops repelled an ISWAP attack on a Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Mairari, striking a blow to the group’s capability. Terrorists tried to breach the base with two Vehicle-Borne Improvised Explosive Devices (VBIEDs), both detected and neutralised by troops, preventing base penetration. The operation led to multiple terrorist casualties and seized weapons, ammunition, and logistics. Recovered items included AK-47s rifles, ammunition, PKT rounds, grenades, motorcycles, communication devices, combat gear, and medical supplies, further degrading terrorist operations. The neutralised VBIEDs were also destroyed. Troops discovered and safely detonated an IED along the Damboa–Komala axis, ensuring the safety of commuters. In a separate intelligence-led operation, troops intercepted a Lagos-registered vehicle on the Maiduguri–Bama Road conveying suspected logistics supplies for Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists. Two suspects were arrested, with food items, phones, cash and other items recovered and handed over for investigation. They also recovered weapons and dismantled terrorists’ networks. Their efforts paved way for the safe resettlement of displaced persons. Also, 7 of their collaborators, informants, sympathizers and spies were arrested, while 3 kidnapped victims were rescued. Significant quantities of arms and ammunition, vehicles and motorcycles were also recovered, while their camps were destroyed. Recovered weapons are in troops’ custody for further action.
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. For instance, from 12 – 17 December 2025, troops conducted offensive operations in Zurmi, Maradun, Maru and Bukkuyum LGAs of Zamfara State as well as Kachia, Kaura and Igabi LGAs of Kaduna State. Other areas covered during the week include Sabon Birni and Isa LGAs of Sokoto State as well as Wasagu and Bagudo LGAs of Kebbi State. Operations were also conducted in Malumfashi and Rafi LGAs of Katsina and Niger States respectively. During these operations, several terrorists were neutralised, 8 of them were apprehended, while 4 kidnapped victims were rescued. Weapons, vehicles, livestock and other household items were recovered. Recovered weapons are in troops’ custody for further action.
Relatedly, troops on routine checks at Kadage in Igabi LGA of Kaduna State intercepted 2 passengers with the sum of N9,000,000.00 on 3 December 2025. While interrogating them, it was discovered that the money was meant for payment of ransom to secure the release of 6 of their adopted children. Efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.
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. For instance, between 13 – 18 December 2025, troops conducted offensive operations in Bassa, Jos North, Riyom, Jos South, Mangu and Jos East LGAs of Plateau State. They also conducted operations in Kaura, Sanga, Jemaá and Kafanchan LGAs of Kaduna State. During the firefights, some terrorists were neutralized, 16 other criminals were arrested, while 19 kidnapped victims were rescued.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION WHIRL STROKE
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba States recorded some successes in their Area of Operational Responsibility. Between 13 – 17 December 2025, troops conducted several offensive operations to various kidnappers’ hideouts in Akwanga, Nasarawa Eggon, Awe and Obi LGAs of Nasarawa State as well as Apa, Otukpo, Guma, Ukum LGAs of Benue State. Similarly, they responded to distress calls on kidnapping activities in Takum, Wukari and Karim Lamido LGAs of Taraba State as well as Lokoja, Ijumu, Kabba, Kogi, Ifelodun and Eru LGAs of Kogi and Kwara States respectively. During the operations, troops arrested 8 suspected kidnappers, while 43 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms and ammunition, motorcycles and other items were also recovered.
On 11 December 2025, following intelligence reports, troops apprehended 2 impostors for impersonating the Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General W Shaibu at Utesi in Ovia South West LGA of Edo State. Apprehended criminals are in troops custody undergoing investigation before handing over to appropriate authorities for further action.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH-SOUTH OPERATION DELTA SAFE
In Operation DELTA SAFE theatre comprising Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and Rivers States, troops foiled oil theft worth over Fifteen Million Six Hundred and Ninety-Seven Thousand Nine Hundred and Fifty Naira (N15,697,975.00) only during the week. The breakdown indicates; 6,52000 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,510 litres of AGO and 2,015 litres of PMS. Additionally, they discovered and destroyed 3 illegal refining sites and arrested 5 oil thieves.
Relatedly, between 13 – 17 December 2025, troops conducted offensive operations and air reconnaissance in Yenagoa and Kolokuma/Opukuma LGAs of Bayelsa State as well as Okrika and Oyigbo LGAs of Rivers State. Troops also conducted operations in Uvwie and Udu LGAs of Delta State. During the operations, troops arrested 9 suspects among them were 3 gunrunners in possession of arms and ammunition. Criminals are currently undergoing interrogation, while the recovered weapons are in troops custody.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA
Troops of Operation UDO KA conducted offensive operations within the South East region and encountered IPOB/ESN terrorists within the period under review. For instance, between 12 – 15 December 2025, troops arrested 4 suspected criminals in Ihiala, Ogbaru and Onitsha North LGAs of Anambra State.
The DHQ wishes to reiterate that the Armed Forces remain steadfast in their resolve to sustain operational momentum and adapt to emerging security challenges. We reaffirm our commitment to professionalism, inter-agency collaboration, and the protection of civilians. With the continued support of the government and the cooperation of the public, the military will persist in its efforts to secure the nation and ensure lasting peace and stability. In light of the emergency declared by Mr President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, we urge all Nigerians, individuals, businesses, civil society, and partners to partner and support security initiatives. This is a time for collective responsibility and solidarity. Every partnership will aid government efforts to protect lives, restore stability, and speed recovery efforts. Together, we can overcome this challenge and reaffirm our commitment to peace, resilience, and progress.
In concluding, the Chief of Defence Staff, on behalf of the AFN, commends the gallant troops for their bravery, professionalism, and swift response in the successful rescue of the remaining students of St Mary School in Papiri, Niger State. This operation underscores AFN’s unwavering commitment to national security and the protection of innocent lives. Troops sacrifices and dedication to duty are highly appreciated and has justified the confidence the nation reposes in the AFN. Furthermore, the DHQ wishes to pay profound tribute to the generations of military veterans whose dedication, sacrifice, and professionalism laid the foundation of the modern AFN. Through periods of nation-building, internal security challenges, peacekeeping missions, and institutional reforms, these men and women served with courage and an unwavering commitment to the sovereignty and unity of our nation. Their leadership shaped doctrine, strengthened command structures, and instilled the enduring values of discipline, loyalty, and service before self.
The progress and capabilities evident in today’s AFN are a direct reflection of their foresight and resolve. They invested in training, mentorship, and operational excellence, ensuring that each successive generation was better prepared to meet emerging threats and evolving responsibilities at home and abroad. Their legacy is not only measured in victories and milestones, but in the professional ethos that continues to guide our ranks.
As the current generation of officers and personnel, we acknowledge this legacy with humility and gratitude. We accept the responsibility to preserve these standards, adapt to new realities, and lead with integrity. With the same sense of duty that defined those before us, we will carry the torch forward strengthening the AFN today and safeguarding it for the generations yet to serve.
