Ibrahim Ola
Abuja
The Defence headquarters says the Armed Forces Troops have sustained momentum in the fight against insurgency with several arrest rescue done despite all challenges.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja in his maiden brief of journalist disclosed that troops rescued 318 kidnapped victims, while more than 69 terrorists and their family members surrendered during operations across the country in November 2025.
Gen. Onoja said troops foiled oil theft worth N217,664,618, recovering 201,700 litres of crude oil and 88,177 litres of AGO, while 16 illegal refining sites were deactivated.
"Troops are conducting clearance operations, targeted air and maritime interdictions, and intelligence driven raids aimed at degrading criminal networks, protecting civilians, and restoring stability in affected areas. We remain committed to ensuring that every part of Nigeria enjoys peace, security, and freedom from fear. Despite the challenges, significant progress was recorded. Many criminal elements have been neutralised or apprehended, arms and ammunition have been recovered, hostages rescued, and several enclaves previously occupied by terrorists and bandits have been dismantled. We acknowledge that these successes would not have been possible without the courage and professionalism of AFN personnel, working in conjunction with Nigeria Police and other security agencies, as well as the cooperation of all Nigerians who provide timely and actionable information.
*Accordingly, for the month of November, several terrorists, bandits, extremists and other criminal elements were arrested, scores were neutralised and over 69 of them and their family members surrendered, while 318 kidnapped victims were also rescued. Troops foiled oil theft worth Two Hundred and Seventeen Million, Six Hundred and Sixty Four Thousand, Six Hundred and Eighteen Naira (N217,664,618.00) representing quantity 201,700 litres of crude oil and 88,177 litres of AGO, while 16 illegal refining sites were deactivated. Below are the highlights of week ending from 28 November - 4 December 2025 operational activities from all theatres being coordinated by the armed Forces of Nigeria".
He commended the media for their contributions to the fight against insurgency through proper dissemination of accurate and verified news.While also urging against fabricated and unverified dissemination of news piece.
"Your role in disseminating accurate information has been invaluable, fostering public trust and supporting our shared goal of national security and stability. However, I must also caution against unethical practices that occasionally tarnish the profession; a few media actors fabricate stories or resist accountability, which undermines the credibility of the entire industry. I urge you all to continue promoting high standards that prioritize verification above virality, ensuring that facts guide your narratives rather than the pursuit of sensationalism. In times like these, where insecurity poses significant threats to our communities, the Defence Headquarters needs you more than ever.
"Together, we can counter the spread of misinformation that often originates from well-intentioned but uninformed citizens, or worse, from those seeking to sow discord. By partnering closely, we ensure that the truth prevails, safeguarding our nation's unity and resilience," he said
"Under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen Olufemi Oluyede, the Nigerian Armed Forces are implementing robust measures to curb the prevailing insecurities across the nation. Gen Oluyede is ensuring our forces are better equipped to respond swiftly to threats. He has also introduced innovative strategies aimed at combating insurgency, including intensified intelligence gathering, joint operations with allied security agencies, and community engagement initiatives that foster trust and gather grassroots intelligence. These efforts are designed to sustain the current security tempo, with a focus on professionalism, discipline, and accountability, ultimately aiming to restore lasting peace and stability in affected regions."
"Furthermore, Gen Oluyede is advocating for increased resources to address key challenges in the fight against insecurity, emphasizing improved welfare for our troops as a cornerstone of operational success. This includes recent enhancements such as the increase in the Ration Cash Allowance and the distribution of modern equipment, which not only boost morale but also enhance the effectiveness of frontline personnel. By prioritizing the "Soldiers First" agenda, he is ensuring that our armed forces remain motivated and resilient, while also strengthening inter-agency collaborations to tackle root causes like terrorism and banditry. These comprehensive approaches underscore a commitment to holistic security solutions that protect citizens and promote national development."
Read Operational Activities/Successes Below:
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH EAST OPERATION HADIN KAI
4. The Joint Task Force North East OPERATION HADIN KAI (OPHK) during the week ending, troops sustained its operational momentum by denying Boko Haram, ISWAP and JAS terrorists’ freedom of action in the North East region. Ground forces in conjunction with the Air Component and Hybrid forces as well as local security groups, conducted aggressive operations across the theatre. During these operations, troops neutralised several terrorists and arrested their informants and logistics suppliers. They also recovered weapons and dismantled terrorists’ networks. Their efforts paved way for the safe resettlement of displaced persons. For instance, from 27 November - 3 December 2025, troops conducted operations against terrorists in Mafa, Ngala, Ngazai, Konduga, Bama, Askira Uba and Chibok LGAs of Borno State. Similar operation was conducted in Madagali and Song LGAs of Adamawa State. During the encounters, scores of the terrorists were neutralized. Also, 6 of their collaborators, informants, sympathizers and spies were arrested, while 5 kidnapped victims were rescued. Significant quantities of arms and ammunition, vehicles and motorcycles were also recovered, while their camps were destroyed. Recovered weapons are in troops’ custody for further action.
5. Air Support Missions. On 26 November 2025, the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI provided several Close Air Support sorties to ground troops in Dikwa, New Marte and Gajibo general Area of Borno State. The air support increased troop’s will to fight against the ISWAP/BH terrorists.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH WEST OPERATION FANSAN YAMMA
6. Troops of OPFY sustained operational tempo throughout the period. During several fire fights, significant number of terrorists were neutralised and kidnapped victims were rescued. For instance, from 27 November - 3 December 2025, troops conducted offensive operations in Anka, Maradun and Talata Mafara LGAs of Zamfara State. Troops conducted operations in Wurno and Sabon Birni LGAs of Sokoto State as well as Batsari, Kankara, and Kankiya LGAs of Katsina State. Other areas covered during the week include Shanono and Tsanyawa LGAs of Kano State as well as Birnin Kudu and Jahun LGAs of Jigawa State. Similarly, troops intensified their operations to Dankon Wasagu, Dandi, Kebbe, Zuru and Bagudu LGAs of Kebbi State. During these operations, several terrorists were neutralised, 13 of them were apprehended, while 9 kidnapped victims were rescued. Weapons, vehicles, livestock and other household items were recovered from them.
7. Air Interdiction. Between 27 November - 3 December 2025, the Air Component of Operation FASAN YAMMA conducted a coordinated mission at Sanusi Ikku’s enclave in Kankara LGA and another mission at terrorists hibernation area in Faskari LGA of Katsina State. Targets were acquired and engaged accordingly with bombs and rockets in multiple passes. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that scores of them were killed, while their camps and logistics were destroyed.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION ENDURING PEACE
8. Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau state responded to distress calls on terrorists’ activities in several sectors. For instance, from 27 - 29 November 2025, troops conducted offensive operations, intelligence surveillance and air interdiction as well as responded to distress calls on terrorists’ activities in Pankshin, Bassa, Barkin Ladi, Riyom, Mangu and Bokkos LGAs of Plateau State as well as Sanga LGA of Kaduna State. During the firefights, some extremists were neutralized, 16 other criminals were arrested, while 10 kidnapped victims were rescued. Some weapons, ammunition, motorcycles and vehicles were recovered from the extremists.
JOINT TASK FORCE NORTH CENTRAL OPERATION WHIRL STROKE
9. Troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba state recorded some successes in their Area of Operational Responsibility. Between 27 November – 2 December 2025, troops conducted several operations including Cordon and Search at the residence of a suspect extremists identified as Mallam Ibrahin in Ardo Kola LGA of Taraba State and destruction of extremist’s life support structure in Ukum LGA of Benue State. Other areas covered are Sardauna, Lau, Donga, Karim Lamido and Takum LGAs of Taraba State as well as Gwer West and Katsina Ala LGAs of Benue State. During the operations, troops neutralised several extremists, arrested 20 suspects, while 6 kidnapped victims were rescued. Arms and ammunition, vehicles and livestock were also recovered from them.
10. Between 27 November – 3 December 2025. Troops conducted operations in Lokoja and Kabba Bunu, Yagba West and Ijumu LGAs of Kogi State as well as Gwagwalada, Bwari and Kwali Area Councils of the FCT. During the operations, troops neutralised several extremists, arrested 12 suspects, while 14 kidnapped victims were also rescued. Arms and ammunition were recovered from them.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH-SOUTH OPERATION DELTA SAFE
11. In Operation DELTA SAFE theatre in Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and River state, troops foiled oil theft worth over Twelve Million One Hundred and Twenty Thousand Twenty Naira (N12,120,020.00) only during the week. The breakdown indicates; 11,850 litres of stolen crude oil and 540 litres of AGO. Additionally, they discovered and destroyed 4 illegal refining sites and arrested 25 oil thieves and other criminals, while assorted arms and ammunition were also recovered.
12. Relatedly, between 27 - 29 November 2025, troops conducted offensive operations and air reconnaissance in the general areas of Bayelsa, Delta, Imo and River State respectively. During the operations, troops neutralised several criminals, arrested 3 suspects, while arms and ammunition were also recovered from them.
JOINT TASK FORCE SOUTH EAST OPERATION UDO KA
13. Troops of Operation UDO KA sustained offensive posture throughout the week. They conducted offensive operations in Udenu and Oji River LGAs of Enugu State as well as Ikwo LGA of Ebonyi State. Troops also conducted operations in Bende and Biase LGAs of Abia and Cross River States respectively. During the operations, troops neutralised several terrorists, arrested 4 of them and rescued 4 kidnapped victims. They recovered arms, ammunition, vehicles and improvised explosive devices making materials from them.
14. Air Interdiction Missions. Between 28 November - 2 December 2025, in support of the ongoing joint clearance operations, the Air Component of Operation UDO KA conducted air interdiction at terrorists’ locations in Ezeagu LGA of Enugu State. The target was acquired and engaged with rockets and cannons in successive passes. Battle Damage Assessment revealed that several terrorists were neutralised, while their camps and logistics were destroyed.
15. In conclusion, Defence Headquarters wishes to commend the troops for their bravery and urged them to maintain the momentum. The AFN solicits continued sharing of credible information with troops to enhance our operations. We continue to solicits the support of all Nigerians in this regard. We also call for support for the veterans by supporting the Armed Forces Remembrance Day emblem that was launched by Mr President on the 2 Dec 25 at the Presidential Villa. The Armed Forces of Nigeria is dedicated to continue to operate within the ambit of the law. We convey our assurances that we are enhancing our operational tempo in the light of the renewed security threats until peace is returned to all troubled areas of the country. The AFN also wishes to inform all Nigerians that we are emplacing all necessary measures, systems and activities humanly possible to ensure that the remaining students recently abducted are rescued and returned to their families unhurt.
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