Troops Arrest 4,375 Terrorists, Rescue 2,336 Kidnapped Victims, Intercept Oil Theft Worth Over 8.9 Billion In 2025—DHQ
•By Admin
ABUJA – THE Defense Headquarters (DHQ), on Wednesday said, Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria have recorded unprecedented operational successes in the outgoing year 2025 with a total arrest of 4,375 suspected terrorists, their commanders, lieutenants and their foot soldiers.
DHQ also disclosed that Troops had rescued 2,336 kidnapped victims and thwarted oil theft valued at N8,918,647,206.00 in 2025.
This was made known to newsmen at the Defense Headquarters, Abuja by the Director, Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja during the End of Year press briefing on all ongoing military operations across the country within the year 2025.
According to General Onoja, the briefing “highlights operational achievements in the sustained effort to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect lives and property, and uphold national security.
“The brief also assesses the current threat environment, inter-agency collaboration, and the resilience and professionalism of troops in the face of complex and asymmetric threats, including terrorism, insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, oil theft, and other forms of criminality.”
Onoja noted that, as the Armed Forces continues to adapt to emerging security realities, this review serves to inform strategic decision-making, enhance operational effectiveness and set clear priorities for the coming year.
He said, “Our focus as always is, to ensure the safety of both our citizens and our personnel while maintaining our duty to inform the public about the efforts and the successes guiding our actions.
“DHQ is aware of the public interest in the ongoing military operations, and we are committed to providing you with timely and accurate information about our activities across all theatres.
“Our forces are currently engaged in both kinetic and non-kinetic operations in order to combat specific threats, securing our citizens and provide a secured environment for economic activities to thrive.”
Within the year, General Onoja stated that “Troops in conjunction with other security stake holders neutralized several top terrorists’ commanders, including; Aminu Kanawa, Dan Bokolo, Bello Buba, Dan Inna, Halilu Sabubu, Abu Dan Shehu Jabbi, Dogo Bashiru Yellow, Abba Allai (aka Amirul Khalid of Alafa), Amir Abu Fatimah, Kingpin Auta, Abdul Jamilu, Salisu, Malla Jidda, Talha, Mallam Umar, Abu Yazeed, Kabiru Bebe, Maiwada, Mai Dada and Nwachi Eze (aka Onowu).
“Others include notorious bandit with the pseudo names; Dosso, Suleiman, Jagaban and Danja. Troop also arrested 4,375 suspects, and received 1,616 surrendered terrorists and their family members, while 2,336 kidnapped hostages were successfully rescued.
He revealed also that, Troops of Operation DELTA SAFE thwarted oil theft valued at N8,918,647,206.00
The breakdown includes the recovery of 16, 623,542 litres of stolen crude oil, 1,255,674 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), 407,734 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK), and 1,508,823 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS). Furthermore, troops discovered and destroyed over 503 illegal refining sites.
General Onoja further stressed that, the DHQ is acutely aware of terrorist factions relocating to some communities in response to military pressure carried out on terrorist locations.
According to him, “The purported influx of armed herders into certain communities is being viewed seriously. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets are actively monitoring terrorist movements across various operational theatres.
“Several movements have been identified and are presently being tracked. Communities are urged to maintain composure, vigilance, and cooperation with security agencies.”
He encouraged citizens to promptly report any suspicious movements or activities to the nearest security agencies’ formations, saying, “The Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with security agencies, have intensified proactive measures to thwart any attempts by fleeing terrorists to infiltrate or destabilize any community.
“The DHQ remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding lives and upholding national security,” he said.
In addition, Onoja maintained that, Troops of AFN and other security stake holders remain committed to denying terrorists, insurgents, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements freedom of action in the country.
The success recorded within the year in all the ongoing operations, Onoja said, “Is a testament to the determination and resilience of our troops, who continue to work tirelessly to secure our nation.
“The DHQ commends the bravery and professionalism of the troops involved in all operations and assures Nigerians of its continued efforts to ensure the safety and security of our citizens.
“Despite the risks, hardships, and time spent away from families, our troops have remained steadfast in the resolve to protect lives, property and the sovereignty of our country.
“The CDS has asked me to assure personnel of the Armed Forces of Nigeria that their welfare remains a top priority, as we enter the new year, may they receive renewed strength, peace, and hope.
“May it also be a reminder that your service is valued, your sacrifices are recognized, and your efforts will never be in vain. Let me assure you all that this coming year 2026, the AFN and other security stake holders will redouble efforts in the fight against terrorism and other sundry crimes.”
“On the Armed Force Remembrance Day activities, the CDS on behalf of the Armed Forces of Nigeria salutes the sacrifices of our veterans.
“On behalf of the CDS and the entire AFN, I wish our gallant troops, Defence Correspondents and your lovely families a prosperous, peaceful New Year. God Bless the Armed Forces of Nigeria! God Bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” He said.
•INDEPENDENTNG.