Military Rescues Kidnap Victims, Destroys Terrorist Logistics In Nationwide Operations

The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have intensified nationwide operations, rescuing kidnapped victims, dismantling terrorist logistics networks, recovering weapons and disrupting criminal activities across multiple states, the Defence Headquarters has said.

Speaking at a press briefing in Abuja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, said the military sustained offensive operations across the country between July 3 and 9, 2026, aimed at restoring peace, protecting lives and safeguarding critical national assets.

According to him, troops under Operation Hadin Kai recorded significant gains in the North-East through coordinated offensive and search-and-rescue missions across Adamawa, Borno and Yobe states.

Onoja said soldiers rescued six farmers abducted from Mussa in Askira Uba Local Government Area of Borno State and destroyed terrorist logistics bases in Wulgo, Hausari, Danbaure and Jegarawaji in Ngala Local Government Area.

He added that troops also arrested suspected terrorist informants and logistics suppliers, including a suspect accused of helping terrorists identify wealthy individuals for kidnapping in Monguno, Borno State.

The military further recovered ransom money, weapons and other operational supplies while apprehending several suspected terrorists and collaborators in different theatres of operation.

In the North-West, troops under Operation Fansan Yamma intensified patrols and targeted operations across Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi and Zamfara states, leading to the recovery of arms and ammunition, stolen livestock and the disruption of terrorist activities.

Onoja said security forces also intercepted suspected suppliers of materials used in the production of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and dismantled several terrorist logistics networks.

In the North-Central, troops deployed under Operations Savannah Shield, Enduring Peace and Whirl Stroke carried out counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across Niger, Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi and Taraba states.

The operations resulted in the arrest of suspected criminals, the rescue of kidnapped victims, the recovery of weapons and the destruction of criminal hideouts.

In the South-South and South-East, troops of Operations Delta Safe and Udo Ka recorded successes against sea pirates, kidnappers, economic saboteurs and other criminal groups.

According to Onoja, the military dismantled illegal refining sites in Rivers and Abia states, recovered stolen crude oil and refined petroleum products, and disrupted activities threatening Nigeria’s economic infrastructure.

He also commended the Air Component of the Armed Forces for conducting precision airstrikes and armed reconnaissance missions that supported ground operations and contributed to the rescue of kidnapped victims.

The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, praised troops for their professionalism, courage and commitment in ongoing operations across the country.

The Defence Headquarters also called on Nigerians, communities and the media to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to strengthen military operations and improve national security.