Troops arrest 1,359 terrorists, rescue 813 kidnap victims in three months
Troops on internal security operations across the country arrested 1,359 terrorists, and rescued 813 kidnap victims in the first quarter of 2026. They also received 197 surrendered terrorists in the
Troops on internal security operations across the country arrested 1,359 terrorists, and rescued 813 kidnap victims in the first quarter of 2026.
They also received 197 surrendered terrorists in the North East, while 458 arms and 15,899 rounds of ammunition were recovered within the same period,
The Director Defence Media Operations Major General Michael Onoja gave the figures on Tuesday while giving updates on military operations.
He said troops also destroyed 101 illegal refining sites, and recovered over 547,920 litres of stolen petroleum products.
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Onoja said these feats were recorded as troops demonstrated unwavering resolve, professionalism, and gallantry in securing the country during the first quarter of 2026.
He added that troops across seven operational theatres delivered “measurable strategic outcomes with the elimination of scores of terrorists and criminal leaders.”
Onoja said these achievements represent a significant degradation of criminal and terrorist operational capacity nationwide.
He said the confirmation by Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) of the death of senior “Shura” council member, Abu Yahya Al-Muhajir, arrested to the irreversible impact of the Nigerian military sustained kinetic operations on the group’s command structure.
He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to operating in “strict accordance with its rules of engagement, international humanitarian law, the Geneva Conventions, and all applicable legal frameworks.”
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He said the ongoing operations would be further intensified to decisively dismantle all remaining criminal and terrorist elements.
Onoja added that military high command is monitoring the activities of non-state actors and will hold them accountable.
According to him, the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, had expressed appreciation to all members of the Armed Forces, especially the troops on the frontlines, for their “sacrifice and dedication.”
He also commended the support of sister security agencies, the media, and the Nigerian public, "whose cooperation and timely intelligence remain critical to operational success.”
The Defence spokesperson expressed the CDS solemn tribute to those who paid the supreme price in service to the nation, reassuring their families that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
“The CDS said the Presidential Directive to create a special fund for veterans and the military personnel who are victims/affected by war is indicative of the Commander in Chief's appreciation of the sacrifices of service personnel.
“He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and continue to report suspicious activities to security agencies,” Onoja said.
