The Independent Media and Policy Initiative (IMPI) has said that despite recent security challenges, including a resurgence of kidnapping incidents in some parts of the country, the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recorded significant successes in the fight against terrorism and banditry.
In its latest policy assessment, the think tank noted that no fewer than 8,000 terrorists and bandits have been neutralised by security operatives through various military operations supported by newly acquired security platforms.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Dr. Omoniyi Akinsiju, IMPI argued that the Tinubu administration’s counter-terrorism efforts have been largely successful, particularly in recent months.
According to the group, “From our study of the federal administration’s counter terrorism efforts, it is indisputable that the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu administration has recorded notable tactical successes in the fight against banditry.
“Between 2023 and now, police and military offensives have led to the neutralisation of over 8,000 bandits and terrorists, the arrest of 11,600 criminals, and the recovery of thousands of weapons.
“As recently as June 6, 2026, troops of Operation HADIN KAI rescued 360 kidnapped victims from a heavily fortified terrorist enclave hidden deep within the Mandara Mountains in Borno State.”
The group also highlighted other recent rescue operations across the country.
The statement cited operations in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State, where troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Brigade, working alongside local vigilantes, rescued two kidnap victims after pursuing fleeing terrorists.
Similarly, military operations conducted in Borno State in May and June 2026 resulted in the rescue of hundreds of abducted persons, while a joint operation by the Nigerian Army and the Nigerian Air Force in Kwara State secured the release of 21 victims.
“Recent efforts by the federal administration have resulted in major rescues of citizens abducted by kidnappers and bandits in Kebbi, Kaduna, Niger, Kwara and Borno states, marking a significant departure from previous trends,” IMPI stated.
The policy group further outlined some of the strategies being deployed by security agencies in combating terrorism and kidnapping.
According to IMPI, troops frequently undertake aggressive pursuit operations in forests, mountainous terrain and other difficult environments, including the Mandara Mountains in Borno State and Babanla Forest in Kwara State. Such operations often force insurgents and bandits to abandon their captives while fleeing military pressure.
The group added that intelligence led operations have also played a crucial role in securing the release of victims.
The group cited the case of a retired military officer in Plateau State who was rescued through covert military operations despite kidnappers demanding a ransom of ₦200 million.
“Security operatives utilise Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets before launching air operations. Precision air strikes and drone surveillance missions frequently dislodge militant hideouts, creating opportunities for captives to escape and reach safety,” the statement noted.
According to IMPI, rescued victims are usually provided with first aid, trauma support and food at military medical facilities before being reunited with their families through state authorities.
The think tank attributed many of the recent successes to the Federal Government’s investments in military hardware and personnel development.
“It will not be out of place to credit these outcomes to the Tinubu administration’s major investments in military and presidential aviation assets,” it stated.
Among the key acquisitions listed by the group are 24 M-346FA fighter jets, four T-129 ATAK helicopters, five Agusta 109S Trekker helicopters, 12 MD 530F Cayuse attack helicopters, Diamond DA62 surveillance aircraft and King Air 360i multi purpose aircraft.
The report also highlighted efforts to strengthen military training and capacity building through the establishment of additional training depots, including a new facility in Abakaliki/Amasiri-Edda, Ebonyi State.
According to IMPI, the administration has expanded international defence cooperation by sending about 200 officers and soldiers to Türkiye for advanced special forces and tactical training, while also securing defence and advisory partnerships with countries such as France.
The group further noted that the government has launched an elite Special Operations Force programme focused on counter terrorism, counter insurgency, intelligence gathering, cyber warfare and other high-risk missions.
However, IMPI stressed that more work remains to be done, particularly in the deployment of advanced technology to enhance operational readiness and in addressing the socio-economic conditions that criminal groups exploit in remote communities.
The think tank maintained that while security challenges persist, available evidence suggests that the administration’s counter terrorism campaign continues to achieve measurable gains rather than showing signs of failure.