By Comfort Akor
The Minister of Defense, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, says the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has achieved significant successes in its ongoing campaign to safeguard Nigeria’s national security and protect its territorial integrity.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the minister said that since the beginning of the Tinubu administration, over 13,000 terrorists and criminals have been neutralized, while more than 17,000 others have been arrested by the Armed Forces across various theatres of operation.
The press briefing was part of activities lined up to mark the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day (AFCRD).
According to Badaru, troops also rescued nearly 10,000 hostages, while over 100,000 Boko Haram and ISWAP combatants and their families have surrendered to Nigerian forces.
“The data speaks for itself. Under this administration, our troops have recorded tremendous operational successes dismantling terrorist enclaves, neutralizing notorious bandit leaders, and restoring peace to several communities,” the minister said.
He noted that the successes achieved by the Armed Forces have enabled thousands of displaced persons to return to their ancestral homes, particularly in the North-East and North-West regions.
Badaru also highlighted the military’s achievements in the South-South, where troops have destroyed over 1,900 illegal refining sites, significantly reducing crude oil theft and maritime crimes.
“The commitment of our troops to protect Nigeria’s vital economic assets is unwavering. These efforts have not only curbed oil theft but have enhanced national revenue security,” he added.
While acknowledging that pockets of insecurity remain, the minister said the government is strengthening a “whole-of-society” approach that brings together government institutions, civil society, traditional rulers, academia, and the private sector to jointly tackle insecurity.
In a symbolic move to honour the Armed Forces, Badaru also unveiled an innovative digital initiative the “Thank A Soldier” QR Code platform which allows Nigerians at home and abroad to send personalized messages of appreciation and encouragement to serving troops, as well as pay tribute to fallen heroes.
The Minister also announced a detailed lineup of activities for the 2026 Armed Forces Celebration and Remembrance Day, which will feature national, humanitarian, and commemorative events:
National Emblem Appeal Launch by President Tinubu – Wednesday, November 27, 2025
Special Jumaat Service – Friday, January 9, 2026
Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service – Sunday, January 11, 2026
Humanitarian Outreach & Family/Community Day – Saturday, January 10, 2026
National Symposium and Lecture Series – Monday, January 12, 2026, themed “Securing Nigeria’s Future: The Armed Forces and National Development”
Gala and Fundraising Dinner – Tuesday, January 13, 2026, to support the Armed Forces Foundation
Medical Outreach and Free Day – Wednesday, January 14, 2026
National Wreath-Laying Ceremony (Remembrance Day Proper) – Thursday, January 15, 2026, at the National Arcade, Abuja, and simultaneously across all states
