In an unprecedented show of military might and strategic precision, the Nigerian Armed Forces have dealt a significant blow to terrorist networks across the country, eliminating key figures, dismantling infrastructure, and safeguarding the nation's sovereignty. Spanning from July to September 2024, these operations, conducted through coordinated air and ground assaults, have effectively crippled terrorist capabilities and reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to eradicating insurgency and criminality.
COORDINATED OFFENSIVE: A NEW ERA OF COUNTERTERRORISM: The operations, spearheaded by the Nigerian Army, Navy, and Air Force, were aimed at neutralizing the leadership and disrupting the cohesion of terror networks that have plagued the country for years. During this period, the military successfully targeted and eliminated over 65 high-profile terrorist leaders and commanders, severely weakening the organizational structure of insurgent groups.
Among those neutralized were prominent figures such as Munzir Arika, Sani Dilla (Dan Hausawan Jubillaram), Ameer Modu, Matawal Bitrus, and others notorious for their violent activities. The list also includes criminal masterminds and local warlords such as Mohammed Sani, Rimamy (aka Omo), Kachalla Ɗan Baleri, and Kachalla Dan Ali Garin Fadama. The elimination of these leaders, many of whom were responsible for orchestrating large-scale attacks, has sent shockwaves through terrorist ranks and destabilized their operations across all theatres.
DECISIVE AIR AND GROUND STRIKES: CRUSHING TERRORIST INFRASTRUCTURE: Throughout the third quarter of 2024, the Armed Forces conducted synchronised bombardments in all regions, significantly reducing the terror groups' military capabilities. The air raids, executed by the Nigerian Air Force, and supported by ground forces, decimated several terrorist camps and logistic hubs. These precision strikes have not only thinned the ranks of insurgents but have also made it increasingly difficult for terrorist groups to regroup and launch coordinated attacks.
As a result, 1,937 terrorists were neutralized, and 2,782 suspected terrorists and other criminal elements were arrested. These arrests are crucial to intelligence gathering, as the suspects are expected to provide valuable information about the inner workings of terrorist groups.
Additionally, the military has made impressive strides in its efforts to rescue kidnapped victims. In the last three months, troops successfully freed 1,854 hostages, bringing relief to families and communities that have long been at the mercy of insurgents. The rescue operations were swift and surgical, with minimal casualties, a testament to the skill and discipline of the Armed Forces.
SEIZING WEAPONS AND HALTING OIL THEFT: A DUAL SUCCESS: A major highlight of these operations is the staggering amount of weapons and ammunition recovered. Over 688 AK-47 rifles, along with 191 assorted arms and 43,347 rounds of ammunition, were seized from terrorists, preventing these weapons from being used in future attacks. The Nigerian Armed Forces also intercepted illegal arms shipments, thereby cutting off vital supplies to insurgent groups.
In parallel, the military intensified efforts to combat oil theft and illegal refining, a growing concern linked to funding terrorism and criminal networks. During the third quarter, the Armed Forces thwarted the theft of over 12 million litres of stolen crude oil and seized 2.6 million litres of illegally refined AGO (Automotive Gas Oil), among other products. These crackdowns have disrupted the black market for stolen petroleum, further squeezing the financial lifelines of terrorist organizations. The nation's crude oil production is now on track to meet its daily target, a significant economic boost for the country.
RELENTLESS PURSUIT: NO SAFE HAVEN FOR TERRORISTS: The Nigerian military’s ongoing offensive shows no signs of slowing down. Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, emphasized that the Armed Forces are committed to maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist groups. "Our objective is clear: to destroy these groups, decapitate their leadership, and erode their ability to wage terror attacks against our citizens," Buba stated.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have left no stone unturned in their mission to identify and eliminate threats to national security. Every corner of the country where insurgents once thrived is now being systematically cleared, leaving terrorists with fewer places to hide. The military remains focused on dismantling the infrastructure that sustains these groups and extinguishing their will to fight.
ACCOLADES TO THE NIGERIAN MILITARY: The courage and dedication of the Nigerian Armed Forces deserve national and international recognition. Their ability to mount such comprehensive operations across multiple fronts—land, sea, and air—demonstrates a level of coordination and professionalism that is unmatched in the region. The successful neutralization of terrorist leaders, the recovery of weapons, and the protection of national resources are testaments to the Nigerian military growing prowess in modern warfare.
This achievement reflects not only the resilience of the troops but also the unwavering support of the federal government and international partners in combating terrorism. As the Armed Forces continue to adapt and respond to emerging threats, the country edges closer to a future where peace and stability can reign, free from the grip of terrorism.
CONCLUSION: A RENEWED HOPE FOR NIGERIA: The recent successes in military operations from July to September 2024 have given Nigerians a renewed sense of hope. The Armed Forces have shown that they are fully capable of defending the nation against the scourge of terrorism. With strategic victories already in place, the military is well on its way to dismantling terrorist networks entirely and securing the nation’s borders.
For now, the people of Nigeria can take solace in knowing that their defenders are taking the fight to the enemy, ensuring that no threat is left standing.