Nigerian Army

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 12 Composite Brigade have killed two suspected kidnappers and recovered a large cache of weapons and ammunition during a follow-up operation in Edimogbo Forest, Igalamela/Odolu Local Government Area of Kogi State.

The operation, conducted on November 3, 2026, followed an earlier raid on a suspected kidnappers’ hideout in the forest on November 2.

The Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Composite Brigade, Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, disclosed the development in a statement issued late Tuesday.

He explained that the follow-up operation involved tracking suspects who fled during the previous raid and clearing other hideouts believed to be used by the criminal group.

Items recovered by the troops included two AK-47 rifles, seven magazines, 438 rounds of 7.62mm x 54 ammunition and 4,725 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

The military also recovered two bandoliers, two mobile phones and a power bank.

According to the statement, the operation consolidated the gains made during the previous day’s raid and demonstrated the brigade’s determination to sustain pressure on criminal groups operating within its area of responsibility.

The Army added that troops continued to dominate the general area, with their morale and operational efficiency remaining high.

The operation is part of ongoing efforts by the 12 Brigade, in collaboration with the Kogi State Police Command and other security agencies, to combat kidnapping and improve security across the state.

The Daily Reality

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have foiled a terrorist ambush in Zamfara State and rescued two abducted herders while recovering 520 rustled livestock in Sokoto State, the military said on 28 October 2026.

According to a statement by Captain Tamuno Sinivie, Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), troops of Sector 2 came under a coordinated ambush by terrorists on both sides of the Anka–Guruzu Road in Zamfara while conducting a fighting patrol to clear the route after reports of terrorist activity.

The troops responded with overwhelming firepower, fought through the ambush and inflicted heavy casualties on the terrorists, forcing them to withdraw in disarray. One soldier sustained a gunshot wound during the firefight and was promptly evacuated for medical attention. He is said to be in stable condition.

The statement said troops subsequently dominated the road and restored freedom of movement for commuters.

In a related operation on the same day, troops of Sector 2 foiled an attempt by terrorists to rustle livestock and abduct herders at Takasaba Village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State. Acting on credible intelligence, the troops mobilised to the scene and engaged the terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to flee and abandon 520 livestock and two abducted herders.

The rescued victims were identified as Malam Sulaiman, aged 50, and Nasiru Sulaiman, aged 14. They were handed over to the Sabon Birni Local Government authorities.

The military described the operations as further proof of the resilience, combat readiness and sustained operational momentum of Operation FANSAN YAMMA in denying terrorists freedom of action, securing critical routes and protecting vulnerable communities in the North West.

The Theatre Commander, Major General WB Idris, commended the gallantry and fighting spirit of the troops and urged them to sustain the offensive against terrorist elements. He also reassured residents of the joint operations area of the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security, while encouraging the public to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA have rescued two kidnapped herders and recovered 520 head of livestock allegedly rustled by suspected terrorists in Sokoto State.

The operation took place on Wednesday, October 28, 2026, at Takasaba village in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of the state.

The Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Captain Tamuno Sinivie, disclosed this in a statement, saying the troops acted on credible intelligence about terrorist activities in the area.

According to him, the troops swiftly mobilised to the scene and engaged the suspected terrorists with superior firepower, forcing them to flee and abandon the livestock and the two abducted herders.

The rescued victims were identified as Malam Sulaiman, 50, and Nasiru Sulaiman, 14. They were subsequently handed over to the Sabon Birni Local Government authorities.

Troops repel ambush in Zamfara

In a related operation, troops of Sector 2 reportedly repelled an ambush by suspected terrorists along the Anka–Guruzu Road in Zamfara State on the same day.

Captain Sinivie said the troops were conducting a fighting patrol to clear the road following reports of terrorist activities when armed men positioned on both sides of the route launched a coordinated attack.

He said the soldiers responded with firepower, forcing the attackers to withdraw after sustaining casualties.

The troops subsequently maintained their presence along the road to restore freedom of movement for commuters.

However, one soldier sustained a gunshot injury during the exchange of fire and was evacuated for medical attention. The military said the soldier was in stable condition.

Military pledges continued operations

The Theatre Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General W.B. Idris, commended the troops for their conduct during the operations and urged them to sustain pressure on terrorist groups operating in the region.

He also reaffirmed the military’s commitment to restoring peace and security across its joint operational area.

The commander called on residents to continue providing timely and credible information to security agencies to support ongoing operations against armed groups.

The latest operations come amid continued security challenges in parts of the North-West, where communities have faced attacks, kidnappings and livestock rustling.

The Daily Reality

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation Hadin Kai have killed 16 terrorists during a coordinated ambush on a terrorist enclave in the Boima general area of Gombi Local Government Area of Adamawa State.

The Nigerian Army also recorded the death of three soldiers after terrorists launched simultaneous attacks on military positions in Garkida and Garaha.

The incidents occurred between September 30 and October 1, 2026, according to a statement issued on Thursday by the Military Information Officer of the North-East Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai, Maiduguri, Capt. Mohammed Goni.

Goni said the operations produced several results, including the neutralisation of terrorists, recovery of weapons and ammunition, and the prevention of attacks on military positions.

According to him, troops first engaged the terrorists in the Boima general area of Gombi LGA.

“The operational momentum commenced in the Boima general area of Gombi Local Government Area, where troops conducted a well-coordinated ambush against a terrorist enclave.

“The swift tactical action resulted in the neutralisation of 16 terrorists.”

He said troops later recovered three AK-47 rifles, two pump-action rifles, one Dane gun, six AK-47 magazines and a belt of pump-action cartridges from the area.

The Army spokesman also disclosed that an Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai carried out a separate air strike on a group of terrorists in the early hours of October 1.

“Reinforcing the ground operations, the Air Component of OPHK delivered a precision strike in the early hours of 1 October 2026.

“At approximately 4:40 am, an Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform detected a concentration of about 16 terrorists assembling alongside 15 motorcycles beneath a tree canopy in Sector 4,” he added.

Goni said the target was subsequently engaged after identification and target acquisition.

“Subsequent Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the successful destruction of the target, while a few surviving elements scattered in disarray,” he said.

Meanwhile, terrorists also launched coordinated attacks on military positions at 226 Battalion, Garkida, and 232 Battalion, Garaha.

Goni said the troops responded with heavy firepower and forced the attackers to abandon their operation and retreat.

“Regrettably, three brave soldiers paid the supreme sacrifice during the fierce battle, while wounded personnel were swiftly evacuated and are currently in stable condition, receiving medical treatment,” he stressed.

He added that troops had commenced further exploitation and mop-up operations across the affected areas.

According to Goni, the latest operations form part of efforts by the Theatre Command to improve coordination among land, air and other supporting components involved in counter-terrorism operations.

“Building on the strong foundation laid by the previous leadership, the renewed approach is already yielding operational dividends through enhanced coordination of land and air components and other supporting elements,” he said.

Goni said the theatre command would continue to rely on intelligence, technology and joint military capabilities to restrict terrorists’ operations across the North-East.

“As Nigerians commemorate the nation’s Independence anniversary, the troops of OPHK remain resolute in defending the nation’s territorial integrity and creating the conditions for lasting peace, security and socio-economic development across the region,” he stated.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has opened an investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse involving a serving officer, Cap Etim Essien, attached to the Headquarters 3 Division in Jos, Plateau State.

The investigation followed reports of the alleged incident that circulated online, according to a statement issued on Saturday by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Division, Lt. Col. Olumide Olukoya.

Olukoya said the Army had begun efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the allegation, stressing that cases involving sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, were taken seriously by the military.

“The Nigerian Army takes all allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, with utmost seriousness. Accordingly, appropriate steps have been initiated to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident.

“As the allegation is currently under process of investigation, it would be inappropriate to make definitive comments on the culpability or otherwise of any individual at this stage. The Nigerian Army remains committed to due process, fairness and the protection of the rights and dignity of all parties involved,” he said.

The Army spokesperson further stated that relevant civil authorities were also investigating the matter and assured that the military would work with them to ensure a comprehensive investigation in line with the law.

“The Nigerian Army is also aware that the relevant civil authorities are looking into the matter and will cooperate fully with them to ensure that the allegation is thoroughly and transparently investigated in accordance with extant laws and regulations,” he added.

Olukoya said the Army maintained a zero-tolerance policy towards actions that contravened the law or military regulations.

He added that any personnel found culpable after the investigation would face appropriate disciplinary measures.

“The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, any personnel found to have acted contrary to the law or established service regulations will be dealt with appropriately,” he stated.

The Army also called on members of the public to avoid speculation or the circulation of unverified information that could interfere with the investigation or expose those involved to further harm.

The military specifically urged the public to exercise caution in discussions concerning minors, stressing the need to safeguard their privacy and welfare throughout the investigation.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of the Nigerian Army have reportedly arrested a 50-year-old woman in Igabi Local Government Area of Kaduna State for allegedly transporting 300 rounds of live ammunition concealed inside a bag.

According to preliminary military findings, the woman travelled from Zamfara State to Lafia in Nasarawa State, where she allegedly collected the ammunition before heading towards Kaduna State. The Army said the ammunition was allegedly being transported for delivery to suspected bandits operating in the Birnin Gwari forest area of Kaduna State.

The suspect was reportedly arrested during a military operation, while the ammunition was recovered from her possession. She is currently in custody as investigations continue to establish the circumstances surrounding the movement of the ammunition and identify other persons who may be connected to the alleged operation.

The arrest comes amid ongoing military operations against banditry and other security threats in parts of the North-West.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have killed two terrorists and recovered weapons and motorcycles during an encounter in Rabah Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

The operation took place after security forces received intelligence in the early hours of 28 August 2026 about the movement of terrorists who were reportedly transporting hundreds of rustled cattle through the Maikujera general area of Rabah LGA.

Acting on the information, troops from Sector 2 moved to the area to intercept the suspected terrorists. The troops, however, came under attack after encountering an ambush laid by the terrorists.

The soldiers responded with superior firepower and fought their way through the ambush. Two terrorists were killed, while others fled into nearby bushes.

A subsequent search of the area resulted in the recovery of two AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles abandoned by the fleeing terrorists.

The gun battle caused the rustled cattle to scatter into the surrounding bushes. The military said efforts were underway with the support of local vigilantes to trace and recover the livestock.

According to the Joint Task Force, the area remained calm after the operation as troops continued to maintain a strong presence and monitor the surroundings to prevent further attacks.

The force said its personnel remained committed to sustaining operations against terrorist and criminal groups while protecting lives and property within its area of responsibility.

The statement was signed by Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, Media Information Officer, Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on 28 August 2026.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force, Operation Whirl Stroke, have killed a suspected kidnapper and apprehended two others in separate operations across Benue State.

The acting Media Information Officer of OPWS, Lt Ahmad Zubairu, disclosed this in a statement issued to journalists on Sunday.

According to Zubairu, troops received credible intelligence on August 19, 2026, about a suspected bandit leader and his associates who were operating an illegal checkpoint along the Jortar-Atume axis.

He said the troops moved to the location and engaged the suspects in a gun battle.

The statement read, “On arrival, the troops made contact with the criminals, resulting in a firefight during which one suspected bandit, identified by the nickname ‘Cool Nigga’, was neutralised.

“The other members of the group fled in disarray, abandoning a motorcycle, which was recovered by the troops.”

Zubairu further disclosed that troops arrested two suspected kidnappers during another operation at Gou in Logo Local Government Area of the state.

The suspects were identified as Terhile Iyo, 44, and Vershima Emmanuel, 32.

According to the military, the two men confessed to an alleged attempt to abduct a resident of Gou village, Mrs Balame Nyikwagh.

Items recovered from the suspects included a locally manufactured pistol, one cartridge, five TECNO torchlight phones, a MoniePoint ATM card, an identity card, several SIM cards and charms.

Zubairu said the suspects remained in military custody while investigations continued.

Operation Whirl Stroke also reassured residents across its operational areas in Benue, Nasarawa and Taraba states of its commitment to protecting lives and property.

The force called on residents to continue to provide security agencies with timely and credible information that could assist efforts to combat criminal activities in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Operation Fansan Yamma have thwarted an attempted mass abduction in Unguwar Rogo village, Kaura Namoda Local Government Area of Zamfara State, rescuing nine civilians, including an infant.

The incident occurred on August 16 after security personnel received a distress call about an attack on civilians travelling along a local route in the community.

Aliyu Danja, media information officer of the Joint Task Force (North-West), Operation Fansan Yamma, said preliminary intelligence suggested that the terrorists were led by a suspected kingpin identified as Mallam Shuaibu.

According to the statement, the attack may have been carried out in retaliation for the arrest of suspected collaborators who were allegedly connected to the terrorist network.

“The suspects had earlier been intercepted by troops while attempting to procure motorcycles and Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in support of the terrorists’ activities,” the statement reads.

The statement said the attackers later hid inside a millet farm along the route and opened fire on vehicles in an apparent attempt to abduct civilians. The gunfire reportedly caused some drivers to lose control of their vehicles and leave the road.

“In an apparent attempt to retaliate and abduct civilians, the terrorists concealed themselves within a millet farm along the route and opened fire on passing vehicles, causing some drivers to lose control and veer off the road.

“Responding swiftly to the distress call, troops of Sector 2 moved to the area and decisively engaged the terrorists, denying them the opportunity to carry out the abduction.

“Faced with the troops’ superior response, the terrorists abandoned their mission and fled into the surrounding forest.

“Following the engagement, troops rescued nine civilians, including an infant.”

The military further disclosed that two women sustained gunshot wounds during the attack. They were evacuated to a medical facility for treatment.

Operation Fansan Yamma, the army said, would continue its operations against terrorist and criminal groups across the North-West.

It also reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians and restoring peace and security in the region.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, have arrested a suspected explosives courier with 180 units of 20mm Super Power explosives in Zamfara State.

The suspect, identified as 57-year-old Sani Umar, was intercepted on Friday, August 14, 2026, during routine snap checks on vehicles by troops of Sector 2.

The Nigerian Army said Umar was allegedly transporting the explosives from Gusau Local Government Area of Zamfara State to suspected terrorist elements in Jibia Local Government Area of Katsina State.

According to a statement posted by the Army on X on Saturday, the Media Information Officer of the Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Aliyu Danja, said the explosives were discovered after troops searched Umar’s vehicle.

“The suspect, vehicle and recovered explosives are currently in custody for further investigation,” the military said.

The interception took place as troops carried out separate offensive operations against terrorist elements in Birnin Magaji Local Government Area of Zamfara.

The Army said troops engaged terrorists in a firefight around Garin Kaso, where two suspected terrorists were killed.

The operation also led to the recovery of two rifles, two magazines, nine rounds of ammunition and two motorcycles, according to the military.

The Army said another group of terrorists later tried to attack the troops from concealed positions but the soldiers repelled the assault.

The troops reportedly inflicted additional casualties on the terrorists and forced the surviving fighters to escape from the area.

The exact number of casualties from the second encounter was not immediately established. However, the military said information from residents indicated that the fleeing terrorists evacuated several wounded members as well as the bodies of some of those killed.

The Army said the operations reflect the continued offensive activities of Operation FANSAN YAMMA against terrorist camps and the supply routes used to move weapons and explosives to the groups.

The Theatre Command said it would sustain the operations to disrupt terrorist activities and “deny terrorists and other criminal elements freedom of action across the North West.”