By Ameh Gabriel
In its unwavering pursuit of national security and protection of Nigeria’s sovereignty, the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has continued to record remarkable achievements across all regions of the country through intensified operations targeting terrorists, criminal elements, and economic saboteurs. The military remains resolute in its mission to protect the lives and property of citizens while promoting a peaceful and secure environment for all.
This was contained in a statement signed on 13 June 2025 by Major General Markus Kangye Director, Defense Media Operations.
Strategic Operations Across Nigeria
According to the statement, the AFN, through its various joint task forces, has undertaken a series of meticulously coordinated kinetic and non-kinetic operations between 6 and 11 June 2025, demonstrating resilience, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law. These operations have led to significant arrests, recoveries of arms and ammunition, destruction of illegal facilities, and the rescue of kidnapped victims across the geopolitical zones.
Operation HADIN KAI – Northeast Nigeria
In the North East, Operation HADIN KAI troops continued to sustain pressure on terrorist groups such as ISWAP and Boko Haram. Notably:
- Terrorist Surrenders: Dozens of terrorists, including men, women, and children, voluntarily surrendered to troops across Borno and Yobe states.
- Offensive Engagements: Troops conducted successful raids in Gwoza, Ngala, Marte (Borno), Bade, and Gujba (Yobe), neutralizing terrorists, arresting a drug peddler, rescuing 3 kidnapped victims, and recovering IEDs, weapons, and vehicles.
- Arrests of Collaborators: Troops arrested 5 logistics suppliers and a Chinese national masquerading as a miner. Seized items include a vehicle, motorcycle, Chinese passport, phones, and cash.
- Counter-Attacks: Prompt responses to terrorist threats in Gwoza, Abadam, and Nangere LGAs resulted in the elimination of terrorists and the rescue of 3 additional victims.
Operation FASAN YAMMA – Northwest Nigeria
In the Northwest, Operation FASAN YAMMA troops maintained operational momentum:
- Offensive Patrols: Fighting patrols in Zamfara, Sokoto, and Kebbi States led to the neutralization of terrorists and the rescue of 2 hostages.
- Terrorist Activity Response: Troops responded to incidents in Katsina, Sokoto, Kaduna, and Kebbi, eliminating threats and freeing 4 kidnapped victims.
Operation SAFE HAVEN – North Central Nigeria
In Plateau and Kaduna States, Operation SAFE HAVEN achieved the following:
- Engagements in Hotspots: Extremists were engaged in Riyom, Bassa, and Zangon Kataf, leading to their neutralization. Three suspects were arrested, and one hostage was freed.
- Cattle Rustling Arrest: A suspected rustler was apprehended in Riyom, with the cattle returned to its owner.
- Anti-Criminality Operations: In coordinated missions across Bassa, Mangu, Jos North, and others, extremists were neutralized and 4 hostages rescued.
Operation WHIRL STROKE – Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States
Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE executed key security operations, including:
- Extremist Neutralization: Troops engaged and killed a violent extremist in Wamba (Nasarawa), recovering arms and a mobile phone.
- Interdictions and Arrests: Two terrorists were arrested in Benue and Nasarawa, while one kidnapped victim was rescued in Bali, Taraba.
- Kidnapping Counteractions: Two kidnappers were arrested, and a hostage rescued in Kwara and Benue States.
Operation DELTA SAFE – South-South Nigeria
In the Niger Delta, Operation DELTA SAFE troops sustained pressure on oil thieves and criminals:
- Illegal Refining Site Destruction: Over 121,035 litres of stolen crude oil and thousands of litres of illegally refined products were recovered. Troops dismantled dozens of illegal refining sites, ovens, storage facilities, and boats.
- Arrests and Recoveries: 23 suspects were apprehended. Arms, vehicles, and communication devices were also seized.
- Anti-Crime Patrols: Between 7 and 10 June, troops conducted missions in Imo, Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, and Anambra, arresting vandals and rescuing a kidnapped victim.
Operation UDO KA – Southeast Nigeria
Troops under Operation UDO KA intensified efforts in Anambra, Ebonyi, and Abia States:
- Engagements with Extremists: One extremist was killed and 2 arrested in Aguta and Effium. Weapons and a vehicle were recovered.
- Arrests: Eight suspected extremists were arrested, with the recovery of a stolen vehicle, weapon, ammunition, and a laptop.
National Impact and Commitment
The successes recorded across these operations underscore the Armed Forces’ holistic strategy of combining intelligence-driven action, community collaboration, and robust tactical operations. The following outcomes were recorded during the week:
- Rescued Hostages: Over a dozen kidnapped victims regained their freedom.
- Terrorist Casualties: Dozens of terrorists were neutralized across various regions.
- Arrests Made: Over 50 suspects involved in terrorism, oil theft, kidnapping, and other crimes were apprehended.
- Equipment Recovered: A wide cache of weapons, ammunition, motorcycles, vehicles, and IED-making materials was seized.
Public Cooperation and Forward Outlook
The military reiterates that public support remains crucial in achieving long-term peace and security. Citizens are encouraged to provide credible intelligence, remain vigilant, and collaborate with security forces through appropriate channels.
“The dedication of our troops and the support of the Nigerian people remain our strongest asset in this fight against insecurity. Together, we will overcome every threat to our peace and sovereignty.” Major General Markus Kangye, Director, Defense Media Operations
As the Armed Forces continue their operations, transparency and accountability remain at the core of their mission. Weekly updates will keep the nation informed, reinforcing trust in the military’s capacity and will to safeguard Nigeria.
