The Nigerian military has achieved significant successes in its ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry across the country. According to the Defence Headquarters, between November 6 and 12, 2026, troops conducted operations in various theatres, rescuing 125 kidnapped victims and neutralizing eight terrorists. The military also arrested 11 suspected collaborators and logistics suppliers, while 12 terrorist fighters and their family members surrendered during the operations.
One of the major breakthroughs was recorded in the North-East, where troops rescued 119 travellers abducted by terrorists along the Dutsen Kura-Bulazarma-Kamuya Road in Buratai, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State. The victims, comprising 69 adult males, 35 adult females, and 15 children, were abducted on November 6, prompting troops to mobilize and pursue the attackers. The military discovered an improvised explosive device planted by the terrorists in the area and recovered vehicles and other belongings of the victims.
In addition to the Borno State rescue, troops also conducted successful operations in other parts of the country. In the North-West, troops of Operation Fansan Yamma rescued five kidnapped victims during separate operations in Zamfara State. However, a driver abducted alongside other commuters along the Kombo-Gurusu Road in Bukkuyum Local Government Area was found dead. The military also raided suspected terrorist hideouts, destroyed camps, and recovered weapons, ammunition, and motorcycles in Bauchi, Plateau, Taraba, Benue, Nasarawa, Niger, Kwara, and Oyo states.
The Emir of Bogwas in Bauchi State handed over six AK-47 rifles and six magazines to troops in Alkaleri Local Government Area on November 10. The weapons were surrendered to the traditional ruler by armed elements following a military encounter at Dajin Madam on November 8. In Niger State, troops operating in Kainji Lake National Park detonated five improvised explosive devices, repelled two attacks, neutralized two suspected terrorists, and arrested 11 locals suspected of collaborating with terrorist groups.
In the South-East, troops of Operation Udoka foiled an alleged attempt by suspected cultists to ambush oil tankers at Awara Community in Ohaji-Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State. The troops recovered an AK-47 rifle, a pump-action gun, two magazines, and 36 rounds of ammunition after the suspected criminals fled into the forest. The military remains committed to confronting terrorist and criminal groups across the country, according to Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, commended the troops for their resilience and wished personnel wounded during the operations a speedy recovery. Oluyede also expressed condolences to the family of the commuter killed during the operations. The military's efforts to combat terrorism and banditry have been ongoing, with troops working to ensure the safety and security of citizens across the country.
The recent operations demonstrate the military's commitment to protecting the country and its citizens from terrorist and criminal activities. With 125 kidnapped victims rescued and eight terrorists neutralized, the military has recorded significant successes in its efforts to combat insecurity. The military's operations will continue, with troops working to identify and address the root causes of terrorism and banditry in the country.
Key points
- 125 kidnapped victims rescued across the country
- 8 terrorists neutralized during operations
- 11 suspected collaborators and logistics suppliers arrested
