By Uriel Ihotu
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reaffirmed its commitment to national security and peacebuilding, showcasing major gains in the fight against terrorism and violent crime. This was disclosed during a sensitization visit to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) orientation camp in Iyana-Ipaja, Lagos, where hundreds of corps members were engaged in a dialogue with top military officials.
Group Captain I.A. Bukar, representing the Defence Media Operations, briefed the corps members on the military’s achievements between January 2022 and March 2025. According to him, the Armed Forces neutralized 4,919 criminals, arrested 34,983 suspects, and rescued 9,516 civilians across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones within the period.
Highlighting the Armed Forces’ professionalism and resilience, Bukar emphasized that the military remains “partners in progress, not occupiers,” and encouraged young Nigerians to support peacebuilding, unity, and national development through patriotism and collaboration with security agencies.
A breakdown of the military’s operations revealed significant regional successes:
- Northeast (Operation Hadin Kai): 1,944 terrorists neutralized, 13,566 arrested, 3,577 civilians rescued, and over 65,000 weapons and ammunition recovered.
- Northwest (Operation FANSAN YAMMA): 1,770 criminals neutralized, 3,073 suspects arrested, and 2,515 civilians rescued.
- North Central (Operation Whirl Stroke): 704 criminals neutralized, 9,322 arrests, 1,960 rescues, and 5,635 arms recovered.
- South South (Operation Delta Safe): Focused on protecting oil infrastructure, arrested 3,545 suspects, seized ₦168 million worth of stolen crude, and recovered over 50,000 rounds of ammunition.
- Southeast (Operation UDOKA): 352 suspects neutralized, 2,203 arrests, 349 rescues, and nearly 36,000 rounds of ammunition recovered.
- Southwest (Operation AWATSE): 12 neutralizations, 3,254 arrests, 103 rescues, and close to 79,000 rounds of ammunition recovered.
Overall, the Armed Forces recovered 26,059 arms and over 260,000 rounds of ammunition nationwide.
Bukar acknowledged the vital support of traditional rulers, civil society groups, and local vigilante networks in providing intelligence and enhancing security operations. He stressed that winning the war on terror requires unity, trust, and sustained civilian-military cooperation.
The session at the NYSC camp featured interactive engagements and a Q&A session, during which corps members expressed appreciation for the Armed Forces’ efforts. Many pledged to contribute to peace and unity in their communities, inspired by the military’s sacrifices and message of national service.
