The Nigerian military has intensified its campaign against terrorist networks, conducting 588 operations between September and October 2026. These operations resulted in the killing of 435 terrorists, the rescue of 717 kidnapped victims, and the arrest of 809 suspects. Additionally, 198 insurgents surrendered during this period. The military's efforts have led to the dismantling of strongholds and the elimination of high-profile terrorist commanders.
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) attributes the success of these operations to sustained military pressure on insurgents in the North-East and North-West. The elimination of top commanders and the disruption of strongholds have put pressure on armed groups, leading to their southward movement. The DHQ has dismissed suggestions of a ceasefire with Boko Haram terrorists, declaring that military operations against insurgents and other criminal groups remain ongoing across the country.
According to Maj.-Gen. Samaila Uba, the director of Defence Information, the Armed Forces of Nigeria have sustained an unrelenting, multi-layered campaign of coordinated land, air, and maritime operations across all geopolitical zones. This campaign has resulted in the neutralization of 435 terrorists and the rescue of 717 kidnapped victims. Uba emphasized that the sustained neutralization of terrorists, arrests of suspects, and rescue of abducted victims demonstrate that the Armed Forces are not relenting in their operations.
The military operations have not been limited to Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) but have also targeted kidnappers and other criminal elements threatening innocent citizens. Uba stressed that anyone involved in criminal activities that threaten the safety of citizens will be brought to justice. The military's efforts have raised fresh concerns about the possible southward movement of surviving elements and the emergence of new security frontiers.
The DHQ has clarified that there is no ceasefire with Boko Haram terrorists. Uba made it clear that military operations against insurgents and other criminal groups will continue. The Armed Forces of Nigeria will sustain pressure on these criminal elements to ensure the safety and security of innocent citizens. The military's campaign has reshaped the country's security landscape, with a focus on reclaiming threatened territories.
The 588 operations conducted by the military between September and October 2026 demonstrate a significant escalation of efforts to combat terrorism in Nigeria. The Armed Forces have shown a commitment to neutralizing terrorist threats and restoring security to affected areas. The military's multi-layered campaign has been implemented across all geopolitical zones, reflecting a comprehensive approach to addressing the country's security challenges.
As the military continues its operations, concerns remain about the possible southward movement of surviving terrorist elements. The emergence of new security frontiers and the potential for further violence are pressing issues that require sustained attention. The Armed Forces of Nigeria, with the support of defence and security agencies, will continue to work towards ensuring the safety and security of citizens across the country.
Key points
- The Nigerian military conducted 588 operations, killing 435 terrorists and rescuing 717 kidnapped victims between September and October 2026.
- The military's efforts have led to the dismantling of strongholds and the elimination of high-profile terrorist commanders.
- The DHQ has dismissed suggestions of a ceasefire with Boko Haram terrorists, declaring that military operations will continue.
