By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of Defence Staff, Olatunbosun Olufemi Oluyede, has issued a renewed marching order to troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to sustain ongoing offensives and dismantle all remaining terrorist and criminal networks across the country.
The directive comes on the heels of significant operational achievements recorded between April 10 and 16, 2026, across various theatres.
This was contained in a press briefing by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, who highlighted the outcomes of coordinated military operations nationwide.
According to him, troops maintained sustained pressure on insurgents, bandits, kidnappers and secessionist armed groups, leading to arrests, rescues and interception of logistics.
Oluyede, while commending troops for their courage and professionalism, charged them to intensify efforts and ensure that all criminal enclaves are dismantled.
In the North-East theatre, troops of Operation Hadin Kai recorded notable successes, including the arrest of a suspected long-term logistics supplier to terrorist groups in Borno State.
Troops also carried out raids in Adamawa State, arresting multiple suspects and recovering items, while a major logistics interception was recorded in Yobe State.
“A thorough search revealed hundreds of cartons of medical supplies… intended for terrorist elements,” Onoja said.
Further operations across Bauchi, Plateau and Taraba states led to the destruction of terrorist camps and the arrest of key operatives.
In the North-West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma recovered explosive materials in Jigawa State and arrested suspects linked to previous attacks and abductions.
Troops also foiled attacks and disrupted movements of armed groups in Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states.
In the North-Central, troops conducted clearance operations, rescued kidnapped victims and neutralised criminal elements across Niger, Kogi, Plateau and Benue states.
Several kidnapped victims were rescued during operations, including those abandoned by fleeing criminals.
Operations in the South-South and South-East also yielded results, with the arrest of suspects, recovery of weapons and neutralisation of a terrorist in Anambra State.
Troops also tracked ransom payments in Enugu State, leading to arrests and recovery of cash and arms.
The CDS stressed that operations must continue within the framework of the law, in line with international humanitarian principles.
He expressed appreciation to Nigerians for their support and reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace, security and stability across the country.