HQ Nigerian Army

TROOPS FOIL KIDNAP ATTEMPT, NEUTRALIZE TERRORIST, RECOVER WEAPON IN KOGI STATE

Troops of 12 Brigade under 2 Division Nigerian Army have thwarted a planned kidnap operation and neutralized a terrorist during a successful ambush conducted in Lokoja Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The operation which was conducted on 30 May 2026 followed credible intelligence indicating plans by terrorists to carry out kidnapping activities within Jakura II Community. Acting on the intelligence, troops swiftly deployed and occupied a suspected terrorist crossing point along Old Obajana–Tajimi Road, where an ambush was laid to deny the criminals freedom of action.

During the operation, troops made contact with the terrorists and engaged them with effective fire. Following the firefight, one terrorist was neutralized while other members of the criminal group fled the scene with suspected gunshot wounds.

Further exploitation led to the recovery of one AK 47 rifle, five magazines, 70 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bandolier and mobile phones. The recovered items further corroborate the involvement of the criminal elements in kidnapping activities within the general area.

The successful operation demonstrates the resolve of troops of 12 Brigade to sustain offensive operations against terrorists and other criminal elements threatening the security of law abiding citizens. Further exploitation of the area is ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing terrorists.

The Commander 12 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Kasim Umar Sidi commended the troops for their vigilance, combat efficiency and commitment to duty. He reassured residents of the Brigade’s determination to maintain pressure on terrorists and other criminal elements while urging members of the public to continue providing timely and actionable intelligence to security agencies.

HASSAN ABDULLAHI
Lieutenant
Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
12 Brigade Nigerian Army
30 May 2026


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NIGERIAN ENVOY COMMENDS OPAA II TROOPS FOR POSITIVE REPRESENTATION OF NIGERIA AS PERSONNEL CELEBRATE SALAH WITH COAS IN REPUBLIC OF BENIN

Troops of Operation ATILEHIN ALAFIA II (OPAA II) deployed in the Republic of Benin on 28 May 2026 celebrated the Eid-el-Kabir festivities during a Salah Luncheon organized in their honour under the directive of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Wahid Shaibu (NAM), who was ably represented at the occasion by the Nigerian Defence Attaché to the Republic of Benin, Colonel SA Yahaya.

In her remarks, the Special Guest of Honour and Head of Mission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to the Republic of Benin, Her Excellency Ambassador Mopelola Adeola-Ibrahim, commended the officers and soldiers of OPAA II for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication to duty. She noted that their conduct and commitment had continued to strengthen the cordial relationship between Nigeria and the Republic of Benin while positively projecting the image of the Nigerian Army and Nigeria within the multinational environment.

The Ambassador further appreciated the efforts of the Chief of Army Staff towards enhancing troop welfare and sustaining the operational effectiveness of personnel deployed outside the country. As part of the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and in demonstration of her goodwill towards the troops, Her Excellency donated one cow to the personnel of OPAA II.

Delivering the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, Colonel SA Yahaya conveyed the warm greetings and appreciation of Lieutenant General Wahid Shaibu to the troops for their sacrifices, resilience, discipline, and professionalism in the discharge of their duties. He commended the troops for their dedication and for upholding the values and traditions of the Nigerian Army while serving in a multinational operational environment.

The COAS further urged the personnel to remain focused, disciplined, and committed to the successful ex*****on of their mandate while maintaining cordial relations with the host nation and other relevant stakeholders. He reassured the troops of the Nigerian Army leadership's unwavering commitment to their welfare, operational effectiveness, and overall well-being wherever they may be deployed.

Earlier in his opening remarks, the Commanding Officer OPAA II, Lieutenant Colonel AA Ikoro, warmly welcomed the Special Guest of Honour, the representative of the Chief of Army Staff, members of the diplomatic community, officers and men of the Republic of Benin Armed Forces, as well as other distinguished guests to the occasion.

Lieutenant Colonel Ikoro described the gathering as a demonstration of the Nigerian Army's commitment to troop welfare, morale, and operational cohesion. He expressed profound appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for his continuous support to troops deployed outside the shores of Nigeria and reaffirmed the commitment of OPAA II personnel towards the successful accomplishment of their mission in the Republic of Benin.

The event was attended by members of the diplomatic community, senior officers, officers and men of the Republic of Benin Armed Forces, as well as officers and soldiers of OPAA II.

Highlights of the occasion included goodwill interactions, entertainment, group photographs, and the sharing of Salah meals among troops and guests in an atmosphere of unity and celebration.

OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA: TROOPS RESCUE 31 KIDNAPPED VICTIMS, NEUTRALIZE 5 TERRORISTS IN MAJOR OPERATIONS ACROSS ZAMFARA AND KATSINA STATES

Troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA rescued 31 kidnapped victims, neutralized 5 terrorists and dismantled several terrorists camps in a series of coordinated operations across Zamfara and Katsina States

In Zamfara State, troops rescued 31 kidnapped victims around the Bagega–Kawaye axis in Anka LGA. The kidnapped victims were rescued from captivity following a precision air interdiction conducted by the air component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA and a follow on ground operation on terrorist enclaves west of Bagega Forest. The rescued individuals, who had spent several weeks in captivity, were identified as indigenes of Maga, Gummi, Zuru, Wasugu, Bukuyyum, and Anka LGAs across Zamfara and Sokoto States. The victims were provided medical support and will be reunited with their respective families.

In a separate operation in Zamfara, troops made contact with terrorists in Maradun and Gidan Dan Jaja axis where troops neutralized 2 terrorists and destroyed identified terrorist camps. Troops also recovered several fabricated rifles and 4 motorcycles used by the criminals.

in Katsina State, troops intercepted terrorists in transit at Ruwan Godiya axis and Sayaya Road in Matazu LGA who are in transit for an imminent attack. Following a fierce firefight, troops neutralized 3 terrorists recovered motorcycles and some quantities of ammunition. One of the terrorists neutralized was later identified as a foot soldier of the notorious terrorist kingpin, Muhammad Fulani. Rifles and motorcycles were recovered from the 2 encounters

Operation FANSAN YAMMA remains resolute in its commitment to eradicating terrorism and ensuring the safety and security of all citizens across the North West region.

OLANIYI OSOBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
8 Division, Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA
29 May 2026

MASSOB DIRECTIVE ON CHURCH MEMORIALS FOR CIVIL WAR VICTIMS ILLEGAL AIMED AT DISRUPTING THE PEACE IN THE SOUTH-EAST

The attention of Headquarters Operation UDO KA has been drawn to an illegal directive issued by the Movement for the Actualisation of the Sovereign State of Biafra (MASSOB), directing churches in the South-East and parts of the South-South to hold memorial services in honour of civil war victims.

Headquarters Operation UDO KA empathises deeply with families who lost loved ones during the civil war and acknowledge the sacrifices made to keep Nigeria united. The memories of those who paid the ultimate price remain indelible in our national consciousness. However, it is important to emphasise that there are already established national occasions legally recognised by the Federal Government to honour our fallen heroes. These include the Armed Forces Remembrance Day, the Nigerian Army Day Celebration, and Nigeria’s Independence Day. These solemn occasions provide lawful platforms for reflection, unity, and remembrance.

Operation UDO KA remembers with compassion the sacrifices of the fallen heroes which can never be forgotten. However, true honour, lies in unity, peace, and lawful remembrance, not in illegal directives by some irredentists aimed at sowing division and causing panic in the region.

The directive by MASSOB is therefore illegal, provocative, and must be disregarded by all. Any gathering or activity outside the framework of lawful national commemorations is unacceptable and will not be tolerated. The Nigerian Army is aware that sympathisers of MASSOB, IPOB resolved to issue this illegal order to create chaos. Clerics, Innocent citizens and youths are therefore strongly advised to stay away from such plans, which are designed to destabilise the peace enjoyed in the entire Southeast.

Operation UDO KA wishes to reassure the general public, including churches, that they should go about their services and businesses without fear of intimidation. Any individual or group that disrupts public peace or religion activities will face the full weight of the law.

The Nigerian Armed Forces in collaboration with other security agencies remain committed to safeguarding lives, property, and ensuring peace across the South-East.

OLABISI OLALEKAN AYENI
Lieutenant Colonel
Acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations
82 Division Nigerian Army
29 May 2026.

TROOPS OF OPERATION HADIN KAI SUSTAIN OPERATIONAL MOMENTUM, RECORD MAJOR SUCCESSES, ENSURE PEACEFUL EID-EL-ADHA CELEBRATIONS AND STRENGTHEN CIVIL-MILITARY COHESION IN THE NORTH EAST

The Headquarters, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), in conjunction with Operation DESERT SANITY V/SIEGE OPERATIONS, has sustained operational momentum across the Theatre, recording significant successes including the foiling of terrorist attacks, neutralisation of Boko Haram/ISWAP elements, arrest of criminal collaborators, recovery of arms and ammunition, as well as the continued rescue and reunion of abducted civilians with their families. In a major operational development, troops successfully thwarted coordinated terrorist activities along the Buratai–Chara axis in Borno State. Following the sighting of large numbers of Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists through surveillance systems, troops swiftly engaged the hostile elements with offensive fire, forcing them to withdraw in disarray. Subsequent pursuit operations by Quick Response Forces further disrupted terrorists movement, with significant casualties inflicted on the terrorists and 169 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition recovered. No casualties were recorded on own troops.

Similarly, troops of 27 Task Force Brigade of OPHK, in conjunction with Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local hunters, acting on credible intelligence, conducted a successful ambush operation around Kasaicia village in Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State. During the operation, troops neutralised 4 Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorists and recovered 2 AK-47 rifles with empty magazines. In another encounter, troops of Sector 1 OPHK successfully foiled a terrorist attack along the Kirawa axis, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers while maintaining firm control of the battlespace. In addition, troops conducted multiple coordinated offensive operations across various sectors within the Theatre, including Damboa–Kanama, Damboa–Gwoza, Goniri axis, and FOB Azir, effectively denying terrorists freedom of movement and reinforcing operational dominance across key corridors.

Troops also recorded significant successes in counter-criminal operations. In Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, troops swiftly arrested three suspected armed robbers at Gar Gwigwi village following credible intelligence. Items recovered include mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, a dagger, cash, and a dane gun, which was subsequently returned to its rightful owner after verification. The suspects are currently in custody for further investigation. Equally, troops apprehended a suspected terrorist collaborator during operations in Monguno, while another element of troops arrested a suspected drug peddler in Mubi South Local Government Area of Adamawa State with substances suspected to be cannabis sativa. All suspects are currently in custody undergoing further investigation. The Theatre also recorded notable successes in ongoing rescue operations. Troops rescued additional abducted civilians along the Ngoshe–Amuda axis, bringing the total number of rescued persons from the Ngoshe incident to 69. In a related development, a kidnapped civilian was rescued in the Gwoza axis, who disclosed that he escaped from terrorist captivity due to sustained military pressure and bombardment of terrorist enclaves within the Mandara Mountains.

In a further demonstration of humanitarian commitment, four civilians earlier rescued through collaboration with cross-border partners were formally received, medically attended to, documented, and reunited with their families. In Sector 2 of OPHK, Damaturu, Yobe State, troops marked the Eid-el-Adha celebration with a well-organised Sallah event hosted by the Sector Commander, Brigadier General Edet Effiong. The event brought together troops, dignitaries, community leaders, and patients from the Level II Field Hospital, reinforcing unity, boosting morale, and strengthening civil-military cooperation. The Commander commended troops for their sacrifices and urged continued discipline, resilience, and dedication to duty.

The Theatre further recorded the recovery of arms and ammunition during aggressive clearance operations, including bombs and improvised explosive devices in the Magza general area, as well as other logistics items abandoned by fleeing terrorists. The Theatre Command reassures the general public of its unwavering commitment to sustaining operational pressure on terrorist elements, protecting civilians, and restoring lasting security, peace, and economic stability across the North East region. The successes recorded underscore the resolve, resilience, and professionalism of troops of Operation HADIN KAI, working in synergy with other security agencies and local stakeholders.The Military Authority commends the troops for their impressive battle performance, urging them to sustain the operational tempo , in the collective interest of national security.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
28 May , 2026

COAS CHARGES TROOPS OF OPERATION SAVANNAH SHIELD TO DECISIVELY ROUT CRIMINAL ELEMENTS

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday, 28 May 2026, charged troops of Joint Task Force North Central (JTF-NC) Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD (OPSS) to intensify ongoing operations aimed at decisively routing kidnappers, bandits, and other criminal elements threatening peace and security within the Joint Operations Area.

The COAS gave the charge while addressing troops at Sobi Barracks, Ilorin, during his maiden operational visit to the Headquarters, JTF North Central OPSS, in Kwara State.

Lieutenant General Waidi emphasized that the Nigerian Army remains resolute in its constitutional responsibility of safeguarding lives and property, stressing that troops have sustained operational momentum aimed at decisively denying criminal elements the freedom to terrorize innocent citizens, infiltrate communities, or undermine national security. He assured the troops that requisite combat enablers and operational resources are being deployed to enhance ongoing clearance operations and dismantle criminal hideouts across Kwara and Niger States.

The Army Chief further reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare of troops and their families, noting that improved welfare remains critical to sustaining high morale, operational effectiveness, and combat readiness. He urged the troops to remain disciplined, professional, and unwaveringly loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically elected government.

Earlier, the Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North Central) Operation SAVANNAH SHIELD, Major General Y. Yahaya, expressed appreciation to the COAS for his timely interventions, strategic leadership, and sustained support towards enhancing the operational capacity of the Joint Task Force. He assured the COAS that troops of the operation would remain committed, professional, and steadfast in the discharge of their mandate to restore enduring peace and stability within the region.

APPOLONIA ANELE
Colonel
Acting Director Army Public Relations
28 May 2026

Photo News

As part of activities marking the 2026 Eid El-Kabir celebrations, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, earlier this afternoon hosted a Sallah luncheon with Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, heads of Nigerian Army establishments in Abuja, as well as the President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association and members of the Executive Council. The event, held at the Flag House, Niger Barracks, Asokoro Abuja, emphasized unity, charity, and the spirit of togetherness during this important celebration.

TROOPS OF OPERATION HADIN KAI ENSURE PEACEFUL CONDUCT OF EID EL ADHA PRAYERS, SUSTAIN OPERATIONAL MOMENTUM IN NORTH EAST

The Troops of the Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) , under the ongoing Operation DESERT SANITY V/SIEGE OPERATIONS, has continued to consolidate security gains across the North East Theatre, ensuring the peaceful conduct of Eid El Adha prayers while sustaining pressure on criminal and terrorist elements. In a major demonstration of improved security and growing civilian confidence, troops of OPHK deployed at Ngoshe community provided adequate security and participated alongside vigilantes and community members in the peaceful observance of Eid El Adha prayers at the Ngoshe Central Mosque.

The development is particularly symbolic as the location was previously threatened by terrorist elements, underscoring the effectiveness of ongoing aggressive military operations and the gradual restoration of normalcy. The initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to consolidate operational successes and encourage the safe return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes. Prayers were offered for the Armed Forces of Nigeria, continued peace in the North East, and the nation at large.

Similarly, troops of the Headquarters 26 Task Force Brigade , under OPHK ensured robust security coverage during Eid prayers at designated mosques within Gwoza town, creating a safe and secure environment for worshippers. Goodwill messages from senior military leadership were also delivered to troops, boosting morale and reinforcing commitment to ongoing operations.

In separate operations, troops of OPHK swiftly neutralised a robbery threat in Gar Gwigwi village, Biu Local Government Area of Borno State, following credible intelligence. The operation led to the arrest of three suspected criminals identified as Aliyu Mamadu, Umar Mohammed, and Adamu Aliyu, who had been terrorising residents. The suspects were apprehended without resistance after being positively identified by their victims.

Items recovered during the operation include mobile phones, wristwatches, charms, a dagger, cash, and a dane gun. Preliminary findings confirmed that the firearm belonged to Mallam Manu Ibrahim, a member of the Miyetti Allah group, who had been robbed a day earlier. The weapon has since been returned to its rightful owner, further reinforcing the Nigerian Army’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

In a related development, troops of OPHK, in conjunction with members of the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), arrested a suspected terrorist collaborator, one Alhaji Gambo (33 years), during routine security checks while attempting to gain entry into Monguno town. Items recovered from the suspect include vehicle spare parts and other personal effects. The suspect is currently in custody for further investigation. The suspects arrested in the various operations are currently in military custody, while efforts are ongoing to track down other members of criminal and terrorist networks within the Theatre.

The Theatre Command notes that the general security situation remains calm but unpredictable. However, troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high, with personnel continuing to demonstrate resilience, professionalism, and operational effectiveness in safeguarding communities. Operation HADIN KAI remains resolute in its mandate to deny terrorist elements freedom of action, protect civilians, and sustain the momentum towards lasting peace and stability in the North East region. The Military High Authority commends the troops for their impressive battle performance and urged them to continue to dominate the battlespace, in order completely deny the terrorists freedom of action across the Theatre of OPHK.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
27 May, 2026

Photo News

The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Wednesday 27 May 2026 observed this year’s Eid El-Kabir prayers at the Mogadishu Cantonment Parade Ground, Abuja, alongside senior officers, personnel of the Nigerian Army and members of the Muslim faithful. Among those in attendance were the Chief of Policy and Plans (Army), Major General Bamidele Alabi, Commander Army Headquarters Garrison Major General Maxwell Dangana, Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, heads of Nigerian Army establishments, as well as serving and retired senior officers.

The Eid El-Kabir celebration, which symbolizes sacrifice, obedience, faith, and devotion to Almighty Allah, provided an opportunity for reflection on the virtues of selflessness, unity and service to the nation. The COAS urged troops to uphold the enduring values of discipline, loyalty, professionalism and commitment to duty, while remaining steadfast in safeguarding the peace, security and territorial integrity of Nigeria.

Happy Eid El Kabir 2026