The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to national security and the defense of Nigeria’s territorial integrity, recording significant operational successes across multiple theatres from April 10 to 17, 2025.
According to a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, troops—working in synergy with other security agencies and hybrid forces—neutralized scores of terrorists, arrested criminal suspects, rescued kidnapped victims, and recovered large quantities of arms, ammunition, and stolen crude oil during the period under review.
In the South-South region, troops of Operation DELTA SAFE intensified their campaign against crude oil theft. The operations foiled attempts to siphon petroleum resources valued at over ₦262,702,150.00. The troops recovered 117,395 litres of stolen crude oil, 22,050 litres of illegally refined AGO, 6,000 litres of DPK, and 8,060 litres of PMS. Additional items seized included 102 crude oil cooking ovens, 94 dugout pits, 18 boats, 4 speedboats, 56 storage tanks, 164 drums, and 42 illegal refining sites. A total of 42 suspected oil thieves were arrested, and various tools and vehicles used in the operations were confiscated.
In the North East, under Operation HADIN KAI, intensified military offensives led to the surrender of numerous insurgents, including ISWAP and Boko Haram fighters along with their families. In hotspots such as Konduga, Kukawa, Abadam, and Mobbar LGAs in Borno State, and Gujba LGA in Yobe State, troops neutralized several terrorists, made arrests, and recovered PKT guns, AK-47 rifles, locally made Dane guns, IEDs, and a significant cache of 7.62mm ammunition.
Troops of Operation FASAN YAMMA scored major victories in Zamfara, Kaduna, Sokoto, and Katsina States, notably neutralizing notorious terrorist kingpin Bello Kaura in a targeted airstrike. Seventeen kidnapped victims were rescued, including two students of the Federal University, Dutsin-Ma. Thirteen suspected terrorists and a gunrunner were arrested, and troops seized weapons, motorcycles, mobile phones, and ₦45,000 in cash. Arrests were also reported in Kwara State and the Federal Capital Territory.
In the North Central region, troops under Operation SAFE HAVEN neutralized violent extremists and rescued 21 kidnapped victims in Plateau and Kaduna States. Similarly, Operation WHIRL STROKE personnel made key arrests and recovered weapons across Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States.
In the South East, Operation UDO KA troops maintained pressure on separatist groups and armed criminal gangs across Imo and neighbouring states. Several engagements resulted in the recovery of arms and communication devices.
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The Defence Headquarters reiterated that troops remain disciplined and professional in all operations, continuing to take the battle to the enemies of the state and denying them operational freedom.
Major General Kangye reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ resolve to sustain efforts in creating a safe and secure environment necessary for Nigeria’s national development.
