In a series of well-coordinated military offensives, Nigerian Army troops have dealt a devastating blow to terrorists across multiple states, neutralizing key figures, dismantling strongholds, and recovering a vast cache of weapons, ammunition, and explosives.

On Saturday, March 1, 2025, troops deployed in Bama Local Government Area of Borno State launched a fierce assault on a fortified terrorist enclave following credible intelligence that insurgents were regrouping to attack villages around Fallujah. The ensuing gun battle saw troops overpower the terrorists, neutralizing several of them while dismantling explosives set along the route to their camp. In the aftermath, the troops recovered 11 Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) bombs, 760 rounds of 7.62mm linked ammunition, 220 rounds of 12.7mm linked ammunition, one AK-47 rifle, and 440 rounds of 7.62mm x 54mm ammunition.

Further clearance operations in Unguwan Abdullahi led to the destruction of terrorist supply structures and the recovery of buried food stockpiles. As troops advanced toward Garin Fallujah, they engaged insurgents in another intense firefight, forcing them into a chaotic retreat. In the process, a notorious terrorist commander, Abba Alai (Amirul Khahid of Alafa), who had long been on security watchlists, was neutralized. Weapons recovered included one AK-47 rifle, one AK-47 magazine, 23 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one radio set, a DSHK heavy machine gun barrel, one motorcycle, and assorted medical supplies.

In Ukuba Forest, troops uncovered a massive stockpile of military-grade weaponry, including two General-Purpose Machine Guns (GPMG), a Mowag armored tank engine, a heavy-duty vehicle engine block with components, one QJC W85 anti-aircraft gun, three light machine guns, one M60 machine gun, two RPG launcher tubes, one QJC cradle, one HK21 machine gun, one G3 rifle magazine, a fabricated 60mm mortar tube, and three Improvised Explosive Device (IED) cylinders.

Meanwhile, troops stationed in Gwoza Local Government Area intercepted insurgents attempting to escape from Sambisa Forest. A coordinated offensive in Gobara village forced the insurgents to flee, abandoning their weapons. A meticulous search of the area led to the recovery of 57 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 30 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, three AK-47 rifle magazines, a locally fabricated dane gun, and two prototype firearms suspected to be used for training terrorists. In a heartening development, troops also rescued an elderly woman held captive for 10 years.

Acting on intelligence, troops in Chibok Local Government Area raided a notorious kidnappers’ hideout in Shirkaki village, arresting a prime suspect who had long been on security watchlists. The operation led to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, two AK-47 rifle magazines, one pump-action shotgun, four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, and six cartridges.

In Katsina State, troops foiled a terrorist attack in Unguwan Baki village, Faskari Local Government Area, forcing the assailants to flee into the forest, abandoning their motorcycles. In a separate but significant development, a high-ranking terrorist commander in Jibia Local Government Area voluntarily surrendered, handing over two AK-47 rifles. He also released 10 captives, including seven women and three children, signaling his decision to renounce terrorism and embrace peace.

In Zamfara State, troops engaged another group of terrorists, neutralizing one while the rest fled in disarray, leaving behind two motorcycles. In Niger State, soldiers clashed with terrorists in the Dakwala and Chikuba forests, forcing them to flee. A subsequent clearance operation led to the recovery of 36 abandoned motorcycles, and all terrorist hideouts in the area were demolished.

Troops in Baruten Local Government Area of Kwara State raided a known kidnappers’ enclave in Karunji village, prompting the criminals to flee upon sighting the advancing troops, leaving their captives behind. The successful operation led to the recovery of a locally made pistol, six dane guns, and three motorcycles.

In a significant counterterrorism breakthrough, troops deployed to Delta State apprehended a high-profile IPOB/ESN commander, Ekene Ifeanyi, at his hideout in Issele-Asagba Forest, Oshimili South Local Government Area. The suspect, who had been on the security watchlist, was a key figure in establishing IPOB/ESN terrorist cells in Delta State. During interrogation, he confessed to being a top IPOB operative.

Commending the troops for their resilience and bravery, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, reiterated the Army’s commitment to their welfare and emphasized the force’s unwavering determination to eradicate terrorism and criminality nationwide.

> “With unmatched firepower, relentless pursuit, and unwavering commitment, our troops will continue to hunt down remnants of the nation’s adversaries, ensuring peace and stability across the country.” – Lt. Gen. Oluyede

The latest string of military victories underscores the Nigerian Army’s dedication to restoring security across the country, demonstrating its resolve to eliminate terrorist threats and ensure lasting peace.