The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have reported significant breakthroughs in the fight against insurgency, announcing the neutralization of high-ranking terrorist commanders and the rescue of over 200 kidnapped victims across the country between January 31 and February 8, 2026.
In a press statement released by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, the military highlighted the killing of a notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander identified as Julaibib during a fierce encounter in the Timbuktu Triangle, Borno State.
Major Breakthroughs in the North East
Operation HADIN KAI remains a focal point of success, with troops destroying three major detention facilities in the forested regions between Borno and Yobe States. These facilities, capable of holding up to 300 detainees, were dismantled following a firefight that left 30 terrorists dead and led to the rescue of 70 captives.
Furthermore, the military facilitated the repatriation of 700 Nigerian refugees from the Republic of Cameroon through the Banki border, ensuring their safe return to Bama Local Government Area.
Expansion of Operations in the North West and North Central
In response to recent attacks in Kwara and Niger States, the Defence Headquarters has inaugurated Operation SAVANAH SHIELD. This new initiative, carved out of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, aims to aggressively root out terrorist enclaves in the Kaiama LGA of Kwara State and surrounding areas.
Troops also reported successful operations in:
- Kaduna State: Rescuing the remaining abducted persons from the Kurmin Wali community.
- Plateau & Benue States: Neutralizing several extremists and stabilizing areas in Kwande LGA following recent distress calls.
Cracking Down on Oil Theft and Insecurity in the South
In the Niger Delta, Operation DELTA SAFE intensified its crackdown on economic sabotage, destroying seven illegal refining sites and arresting nine suspected oil thieves. Meanwhile, in the South East, Operation UDO KA led to the arrest of 23 terrorists and the recovery of various arms and ammunition across Abia, Anambra, and Ebonyi States.
Commitment to National Security
Major General Onoja emphasized that the military’s objective remains the protection of Nigerian citizens and the adherence to the rule of law. He conveyed the condolences of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Oluyede, to the families of victims in recent attacks in Kwara State, vowing that the perpetrators would be brought to justice.
The CDS praised the professionalism of the personnel and urged the public to maintain the “See Something, Hear Something, Say Something” mantra to assist in intelligence gathering.
