News Agency of Nigeria
Troops nab 11 terrorists’ logistics suppliers, rescue 9 kidnapped victims
Defence/Security

Troops nab 11 terrorists’ logistics suppliers, rescue 9 kidnapped victims

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army says its troops apprehended 11 terrorists’ logistics suppliers and rescued nine kidnapped victims in nationwide operations in 48 hours.

A credible source at Army Headquarters told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja that troops also seized 114 livestock, recovered ₦1.1 million in cash, one pump action gun, four cartridges, petroleum products and other items.

The source said that eight suspected logistics suppliers of Boko Haram/ISWAP were arrested July 7 by troops of 149 Battalion in Gubio, Borno.

The source also said the troops recovered 28 kegs and a drum of petrol concealed in shops and a POS centre, ₦145,510 cash and five mobile phones.

In Katsina State, he said the troops of 17 Brigade foiled a terrorist attack at Gidan Kwairo village in Malumfashi Local Government Area, rescuing five kidnapped victims as the terrorists fled.

The source said that troops of 9 Brigade also apprehended a dismissed soldier, Ex-Lance Cpl. Emefik Michael, on Sept. 7 in Mowe, Ogun, for allegedly extorting locals in military camouflage.

He said the dismissed soldier, who left service in 2017, had been handed over to the police for prosecution.

According to him, troops of 5 Battalion, working with NSCDC and a private security outfit, arrested a notorious oil wellhead vandal on Sept. 7 at Okordia in Yenagoa, Bayelsa.

“The suspect was handed over to the Department of State Services for investigation.

“In Edo, troops of IV Brigade under Operation MESA arrested a suspected militant at Kokotoro Camp in Ovia South-West Local Government Area.

”A pump action rifle and four live cartridges were recovered while the criminals’ camp was destroyed,” he said

In Taraba, the military source said the troops of Operation Enduring Peace intercepted two suspects on a motorcycle at Gayam checkpoint in Gashaka Local Government Area with one million naira.

According to him, one of the suspects escaped. Subsequent information revealed that a farmer had been murdered on Sept. 6 and his cash stolen.

He added that troops also recovered a motorcycle and a mobile phone. The items will be handed over to the police for investigation.

“In Plateau, troops of Operation EP seized 105 cattle and nine rams grazing on farmland at Jwak Metumbi in Mangu Local Government Area without herders.

“The livestock were moved to the troops’ location while community leaders were contacted to produce the owners for amicable settlement.

“In Kaduna State, troops of Forward Operating Base Sanga foiled a kidnap attempt at Ungwan Bera village in Sanga Local Government Area.

“The criminals fled while four victims, including two children, were rescued. Two of the victims sustained injuries and were taken to ECWA Private Hospital, Fadan Karshi,” he added.

The source reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Army to sustain operations to deny criminals freedom of action across the country.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Troops neutralise scores of terrorists in Borno, Yobe, recover arms
Defence/Security

Troops neutralise scores of terrorists in Borno, Yobe, recover arms

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

Troops of the Joint Task Force North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) have neutralised several terrorists in multiple operations across Borno and Yobe States, a military source has said.

The source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the operations were part of sustained efforts to deny Boko Haram and Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists freedom of action in the North East.

According to the source, on Aug. 22, troops of the 21 Special Armoured Brigade repelled a night attack on their Forward Operating Base at Kumshe in Borno.

He said the terrorists, who launched the attack in large numbers with assorted weapons, suffered heavy casualties following combined ground resistance and precision air bombardments by the Nigerian Air Force.

“Exploitation after the encounter revealed more than 20 bodies of neutralised terrorists, including dismembered remains hastily buried in shallow graves. Some weapons were also recovered during the operation,” the source said.

He added that Sector 1 troops, on the same day, conducted offensive operations at Dipchari near Banki Junction in Bama Local Government Area, where scores of terrorists were killed in a firefight.

Items recovered, he said, included a Rocket Propelled Grenade (RPG) tube, two AK-47 rifles, two magazines, 16 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and two motorcycles.

The source further said that on Aug. 23, Sector 2 troops in conjunction with the Civilian Joint Task Force carried out a long-range operation around Ndoksa near Buni Gari in Yobe, where more terrorists were neutralised.

“One AK-47 rifle and two motorcycles were recovered during the operation,” he said.

The source added that the coordinated operations had degraded the terrorists’ firepower, disrupted their logistics, and bolstered troops’ dominance in the region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

How security forces captured top Ansaru terrorist leaders- NSA
Defence/Security

How security forces captured top Ansaru terrorist leaders- NSA

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, said on Saturday that security forces recorded a major breakthrough with the capture of two top leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group.

 

Ribadu told newsmen in Abuja that the intelligence-led operation conducted between May and July decapitated the leadership of the Al-Qaeda-linked group and dealt “the most decisive blow against them.”

 

He said the operation was carried out in collaboration with the armed forces, intelligence agencies and other security stakeholders.

 

Ribadu added that the operation was launched against Ansaru enclaves in and around Kainji National Park, straddling Niger and Kwara, with links extending into Benin Republic.

 

He identified one of the suspects as Mahmud Muhammad Usman (aka Abu Bara’a/Abbas/Mukhtar), the self-styled “Emir of Ansaru.”

 

Ribadu also identified the second suspect as Mahmud al-Nigeri (aka Malam Mamuda),Bara’s deputy and Chief of Staff.

 

He said both suspects had been on Nigeria’s most-wanted list for years.

 

“Abu Bara was described as the coordinator of terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria and mastermind of several high-profile kidnappings and armed robberies used to fund terrorism.

 

“His deputy, Malam Mamuda, was said to have trained in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria, specialising in weapons handling and Improvised Explosive Device (IED) fabrication,” he said

 

The NSA said the two leaders jointly spearheaded multiple terrorist attacks, including the 2022 Kuje prison break and the attack on a Niger uranium facility.

 

Others, he said, included the 2013 abduction of French engineer, Francis Collomp, in Katsina, the 2019 kidnapping of Alhaji Musa Umar Uba (Magajin Garin Daura) and the abduction of the Emir of Wawa.

 

He added that they were also linked to Ansaru’s networks across Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso.

 

According to him, the capture of Abu Bara and Mamuda marks a turning point.

 

” It has dismantled Ansaru’s central command structure and signals the beginning of the end to impunity for terrorist leaders in Nigeria,” Ribadu said.

 

He said security forces also recovered valuable materials and digital evidence during the operation which were now undergoing forensic analysis.

 

According to him, these are expected to generate further actionable intelligence against residual Ansaru cells and their foreign collaborators.

 

“This feat exemplifies Nigeria’s advancing counter-terrorism capabilities.

 

“It followed months of deep surveillance, human intelligence and technical tracking, demonstrating enhanced sophistication and seamless inter-agency synergy,” he added.

 

The NSA commended President Bola Tinubu for providing strategic guidance as well as the armed forces, intelligence agencies and security services for their doggedness in achieving the success.

 

He reassured Nigerians that the government would sustain the momentum, stressing that the fight against terrorism was far from over.

 

“Nigeria will continue to pursue extremists with precision, resolve and unwavering determination,” he added.

 

He also called on citizens to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies, noting that “national security is a shared responsibility.”

 

In his remarks, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, commended the military and other security forces for the collaborative efforts.

 

He also urged the media to continue to deny the terrorists the opportunity to use the media to propagate their evil agenda.

 

“It is incumbent on all of us to ensure that we work collaboratively together so that Nigeria can be safe again,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Mufutau Ojo

Soldiers kill terrorist kingpin, rescue victims
Defence/Security

Soldiers kill terrorist kingpin, rescue victims

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army says it has recorded major operational successes in recent operations, killing a notorious terrorist commander, identified as Amirul Fiya, also known as Abu Nazir and others.

The acting Director, Army Public Relations, Lt.-Col. Apollonia Anele, in a statement said the troops also apprehended other suspects, rescued kidnapped victims and recovered assorted arms and ammunition.

Anele said the operations took place between Thursday and Saturday under various commands and formations.

In Borno, she said that troops of 3 Battalion, deployed at Forward Operating Base Rann Kala in Balge Local Government Area, repelled an attack by ISWAP/JAS terrorists on Thursday.

According to her, corpses of three terrorists, including their top commander identified as Fiya, were recovered.

She added that troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, two rocket-propelled grenades, an unexploded ordnance and other combat items.

“A follow-up operation with the Civilian Joint Task Force and Hybrid Force on Aug. 9 led to the discovery of another terrorist corpse.

“They also recovered a QJC 88-barrel gun, an AA gun tripod, 20 rounds of 12.7 x 108mm ammunition, a backpack and a bicycle,” she said.

In Zamfara, Anele said the troops of 1 Brigade Combat Team 2 acted on credible intelligence on Friday about terrorist activities on Gusau–Kaura Namoda road in Unguwar Sariki Musulmi, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area.

According to her, the swift response forced the terrorists to flee, and two kidnapped victims were rescued and reunited with their families

In Ebonyi, she said the troops of 24 Special Engineer Regiment Saturday responded to a communal crisis between Iyimagwu and Ekpomaka communities in Ikwo Local Government Area.

“Troops came under fire from an abandoned building and responded decisively, neutralising one armed criminal.

“One G3 rifle, 50 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, 16 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition and four hand grenades were recovered,” she said.

Anele said the Nigerian Army remains resolute in defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting law-abiding citizens.

“We are committed to sustaining aggressive operations, working in synergy with other security agencies, to ensure lasting peace and security across the country,” she said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Mufutau Ojo

NAF airstrikes eliminate 95 terrorists in Niger
Defence/Security

NAF airstrikes eliminate 95 terrorists in Niger

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Air Component of Operation Fasan Yamma has successfully eliminated no fewer than 95 terrorists in major airstrikes around Ragada and Warari villages in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger.

A credible intelligence source revealed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets intercepted the terrorists on their way from Zamfara on Tuesday at about 1500 hours.

The sources said the bandits were moving from the Zamfara axis through Kebbi state down to Niger.

According to him, enquiry conducted revealed the bandits are moving with one hundred and eight (108) motorcycles armed with sophisticated weapons on their way to Warari and Rijau Local Government Areas of Niger.

“NAF fighter jets intercepted them between Ragada and Warari villages at location general area coordinate 10° 54′ 1.51” N | 5° 25′ 4.96” E in Rijau Local Government Area.

“It has been confirmed that out of the 108 bandits on motorcycles, only 13 of the bandits escaped, but the remaining were neutralised.

“Residents of the villages of Makuku, Warari, and Ragada in Rijau Local Government Area have expressed their happiness and appreciation to the federal government commitment in the ongoing fight against banditry and other criminal elements in the northwest generally,” he said.

The source revealed that intelligence sources in the area had confirmed the information. (NAN) 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

NAF airstrikes hit terrorists’ hideouts on Mandara mountain, kills scores
Defence/Security

NAF airstrikes hit terrorists’ hideouts on Mandara mountain, kills scores

Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), on Sunday, launched precision air strikes against key terrorist strongholds nestled in the Mandara Mountains, located in Borno.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Mandara mountains are a rugged volcanic mountain range located on the northeastern border of Nigeria and northern Cameroon.

The high-profile targets, Wa Jahode and Loghpere, the NAF said have long served as fortified enclaves for the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram.

This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Monday in Abuja.

Ejodame said the locations, known for their rugged mountain-covered terrain along Nigeria’s border with Cameroon had recently witnessed increased terrorists activity, including reports of logistics build-up and presence of senior JAS Commanders.

He said the strikes followed confirmatory Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance missions revealing clusters of structures fitted with solar panels, black flags, and fortified compounds.

This, according to him, was a clear signs of insurgent resurgence and preparations for coordinated attacks.

“In response, NAF strike aircraft executed a series of well-coordinated air interdictions, targeting and destroying high-value terrorist infrastructure including logistics warehouses, command centres, and defensive shelters.

“Several terrorists were neutralised in the operation, effectively disrupting their supply chain and diminishing their capability to sustain further offensives.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute to sustain ongoing onslaught against terrorists and restore lasting peace to all troubled regions across the Country,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Sadiya Hamza

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda
Defence/Security

Buratai urges Nigerians to support FG, counter terrorists, bandits’ propaganda

By Collins Yakubu-Hammer

The Former Chief of Army Staff, retired Lt.-Gen. Tukur Buratai has called on Nigerians to support the Federal Government’s policies and counter the propaganda of terrorists and bandits.

Buratai made the call during his remarks at the 2025 Voice of Nigeria (VON) Forum on Tuesday in Abuja.

The forum with the theme, “Renewed Hope Agenda: Citizen Engagement and National Security” was organised by VON with support from the Ministry of Information and National Orientation.

According to him citizens engagement and national security is very fundamental, stressing that such has not been formalised over the years.

He gave a narration on how Sweden coordinated its activities which enhanced citizens’ engagement, that led to a national force and that also gave birth to the Navy Seal we have in the world today.

“Citizens engagement is a force multiplier, be it intelligence or cyber activities that affect our nation’s strategic assets and installations. It is important to engage the citizens, especially vibrant youths who are into cyber security.

“It is good to engage them to dispel negative information and counter damaging propaganda by terrorists and bandits. Engaging them will also help in national security.

“Also, citizens should be engaged to support the policies of the government, to counter the propaganda of bandits and terrorists.

“This is because the terrorists and bandits are also in the media space and the social media space.

“And it is good to bring them down, deal with them responsibly so that they will understand that the whole nation is against banditry and terrorism, ” Buratai said.

He commended the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, describing it as “true renewed hope agenda under renewed hope administration”.

Buratai explained that unlike before, the Tinubu-led administration has brought in policies that have a long term effect that would be felt for the betterment of the country.

“Renewed Hope Agenda is fundamental. It is not like a palliative approach. This is a complete departure. And we hope that as time goes on, the impact will be felt and Nigeria will be much better.

“We need a better environment for economic activities to thrive and for the society to grow. I congratulate the Director-General of the Voice of Nigeria, Malam Jibrin Ndace for organising the forum,” Buratai said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Military more determined than ever to go after terrorists – CDS
Defence/Security

Military more determined than ever to go after terrorists – CDS

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says the military is more determined than ever to go after all terrorists to restore peace and stability in the country.

Musa gave the assurance at the Defence Headquarters Psychological Operations Workshop with the theme “Defence Headquarters Influence Operations: Optimising Psychological Operations for Efficiency in a Joint Environment” on Wednesday in Abuja.

He said that there was a need for enhanced non-kinetic activities, particularly psychological operations, to shape the environment in favour of the ultimate aim of all on-going operations.

According to him, the workshop is timely, given the evolving nature of modern warfare and the increasing importance of influencing perceptions, attitudes, and behaviours.

He said the nation had in recent times, grappled with complex security challenges and threats which had brought to the fore some occurrences that threaten the peace and security of the nation.

These, he added, had undoubtedly continued to test the resolve of the Nigerian people and the capacity of security agencies to discharge their constitutional roles.

The CDS said the tactics of the non-state actor of indiscriminate violence against innocent citizens had continually created fear and despair amongst the populace.

He said the prevalent threats in Nigeria’s internal security landscape will not be tackled through kinetic operations alone, due largely to the continuous mutation in the nature and character of the threats.

“This situation therefore presumes that the threat has since gone beyond purely traditional military actions but requires a combination of robust and well-coordinated non-kinetic efforts by all the stakeholders to support our kinetic actions.

“From the kinetic perspective, troops have continued to deny insurgents/terrorists freedom of action despite isolated attacks on troops’ locations.

“With the recent changes in some of the commands in the theatres, we expect new strategies to further destroy the capacities of the terrorists to attack troops’ locations and isolated communities.

“We are more than ever determined to go after all the non-state actors to restore peace and stability in the country.

“In the same vein, we need non-kinetic activities, particularly psychological operations, to shape the environment in favour of the ultimate aim of all on-going operations,” he said.

The Director-General, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Dr Mohammed Bulama urged the military and other security agencies to find ways to end the killings within the country and restore peace.

Bulama said the solutions and resolutions from the workshop would contribute in entrenching peace and stability in the country

He said that Nigeria had over the past decade, faced and still facing one of the greatest security challenges in its history.

“As much as I am aware that such security threats are usually difficult to tackle, I have never doubted the capabilities of the Nigerian armed forces and all government security and intelligence agencies in eradicating these security challenges.

“This is evident in the successes that have been recorded so far in the various theatres of operations across the country.

“In recent times, however, the news of insecurity within the nation’s internal security landscape has made headlines in most of our print and electronic media outlets, especially the social media.

“I must therefore observe that the armed forces has done and is still doing a lot to stem the rising insecurity across the country, despite its limited resources,” he said.

Bulama called for timely but workable solutions that convinced Nigerians that the government was committed to its primary responsibility of protecting the lives and property of law-abiding citizens.

He said the federal government has so far demonstrated strong political will to end the menace of insecurity in the country.

The FRCN boss charged the military to counter radicalisation, win hearts and minds in conflict zones and counter misinformation by utilising AI, social media, and analytics to monitor sentiment, track propaganda, and measure impact. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

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