By David Torough, Abuja

The Armed Forces of Nigeria has announced significant operational successes in its ongoing counter-terrorism and anti-crime efforts across the country, following coordinated missions conducted between March 30 and April 2, 2026.

According to a press briefing signed by Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, troops operating under the strategic leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatunbosun Oluyede, recorded major gains across multiple theatres, including the neutralisation of terrorists, arrest of suspects, and rescue of kidnapped civilians.

In the North East, troops under Operation HADIN KAI intensified operations against Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, successfully ambushing आतंकist groups in Borno State and neutralising several insurgents.

Additional operations led to the killing of eight terrorists in Bama and the arrest of suspected collaborators, including a logistics courier found with 700 rounds of ammunition.

In the North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA forces engaged armed groups across Zamfara, Katsina, Kebbi, and Sokoto states. Troops rescued kidnapped victims, dismantled terrorist hideouts, and recovered weapons, including pump-action rifles. Several insurgents were killed during firefights, while abandoned victims were evacuated for medical care.

Operations in the North Central region under Operations SAVANNAH SHIELD and ENDURING PEACE also yielded results. Troops foiled kidnapping attempts in Kwara State, arrested suspects, and recovered firearms. In Plateau State, two individuals linked to the murder of a community leader were taken into custody, while a kidnapped woman was successfully rescued.

In the South-South, Operation DELTA SAFE targeted economic sabotage, intercepting illegal mining activities in Akwa Ibom and dismantling an illicit oil refining site in Rivers State. Thousands of litres of suspected stolen crude oil and refining equipment were recovered.

Meanwhile, in the South East, Operation UDO KA recorded breakthroughs against members of the proscribed IPOB and its armed wing, ESN. Security forces arrested key operatives, including individuals accused of providing medical support to insurgents. One suspect’s identity was inadvertently confirmed through social media activity linked to the group’s leadership.

Overall, the military reported that dozens of terrorists were neutralised, more than 20 suspects arrested, and numerous civilians rescued during the period under review.

General Oluyede commended troops for their professionalism and urged continued vigilance, while calling on Nigerians to support security efforts by providing timely intelligence.

He reaffirmed the military’s commitment to safeguarding national security and protecting citizens across all regions.

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has deployed 57,000 operatives nationwide to ensure security of lives and property as Christians celebrate 2026 Easter.

This was contained in a statement by the NSCDC Public Relations Officer, Babawale Afolabi, on Thursday in Abuja.

Friday and Monday had been declared public holidays by the Federal Government to enable Christians to celebrate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ,

Afolabi stated that the NSCDC Commandant General (CG), Ahmed Audi, had directed that men from all units of the corps be deployed ahead of the celebration.

He quoted him as saying “the massive deployment, which includes specialised tactical units and intelligence operatives, is designed to fortify national security and guarantee a peaceful holiday period for all citizens.

According to him, the strategic deployment serves as a proactive measure to address potential security threats, while ensuring absolute protection of Critical National Assets and Infrastructure (CNAI).

The CG also directed zonal commanders, state commandants and provosts of colleges to ensure strict security surveillance of their jurisdictions, while visible patrols be carried out and undercover agents deployed to man sensitive locations.

He underscored the importance of vigilance and seamless coordination with other security agencies, adding that “swift information sharing and rapid response to public reports are vital to the success of the operation.

“Our goal is a seamless and secure Easter celebration, hence, we must work hand-in-hand with sister agencies to maintain order.

“I also urge parents and guardians to guide their children properly, ensure they are not manipulated into activities that could disrupt public peace.”

Audi urged citizens to stay alert, support security efforts and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest NSCDC post or security formation.

By David Torough, Abuja

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has led a high-powered delegation of security chiefs to Jos, Plateau State, in a decisive move to tackle rising security concerns and restore peace.

Arriving on Thursday, the Army Chief was received by Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, signaling strong collaboration between the military and civil authorities.

During the visit, the COAS held strategic security engagements and received detailed operational briefings from top commanders, including the leadership of Operation ENDURING PEACE, outlining ongoing efforts to stabilize affected communities and protect lives.

Addressing residents and community leaders, Lt. Gen. Shaibu reassured citizens of the military’s firm commitment to safeguarding law-abiding Nigerians. He urged continued cooperation with security agencies, strict adherence to curfew directives, and support for ongoing operations.

Local leaders, including Jos North Chairman Hon. Dachung Bagos, praised the timely intervention, noting that the presence of top military leadership would boost public confidence and strengthen ongoing peace efforts.

The Nigerian Army reaffirmed its resolve to work closely with other security agencies and stakeholders to decisively address threats and ensure lasting peace across Plateau State