By Gabriel Ameh
Nigerian troops have killed more than 58 suspected terrorist fighters, arrested 92 criminal suspects and rescued 44 kidnapped victims during nationwide military operations conducted between October 30 and November 5, 2026.
The Defence Headquarters disclosed this in its weekly operational update, highlighting military activities across different security theatres in the country.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said troops successfully repelled terrorist attacks and carried out operations targeting kidnappers and other criminal groups.
According to him, troops in Kogi State overran kidnappers’ hideouts in Edimogbo and Obele forests, recovering weapons and other items from the criminal camps.
He added that sustained military operations in Kwara, Kebbi and Niger states, as well as Abia and Anambra states, resulted in the rescue of several kidnapped victims, including a baby.
In the North-East, Onoja said the continued surrender of terrorists and their families indicated the impact of sustained military pressure against insurgent groups.
Defence Chief Commends Troops
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended military personnel for their courage, resilience and sacrifices across the country’s operational theatres.
He urged Nigerians to deny criminals access to logistics and other forms of support, while warning against mob action, misinformation and the spread of disinformation.
Oluyede also charged troops to remain vigilant, disciplined and combat-ready, stressing that criminal groups remain dangerous even when weakened or under pressure.
Military Honours Fallen Personnel
The Defence Chief paid tribute to an officer, a soldier and a civilian hunter who lost their lives while supporting military operations.
He assured their families that their sacrifices would remain remembered by the nation and wished wounded personnel a speedy and full recovery.
Oluyede also acknowledged the contributions of other security agencies, emphasising the importance of intelligence-sharing, operational coordination and collaboration in tackling insecurity.
The Defence Chief reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ commitment to sustaining military operations in partnership with relevant stakeholders until lasting peace, security and stability are restored across Nigeria.
The military said it would maintain its operational momentum in the fight against terrorism, kidnapping and other criminal activities nationwide.
Source: Defence Headquarters, weekly operational update, October 30–November 5, 2026.
