Nigerian Army

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 7 under Operation ENDURING PEACE (OPEP) have dismantled a kidnappers’ hideout in Badurum Kasa Forest, located in Kauru Local Government Area of Kaduna State, and rescued eight abducted persons.

This is contained in a statement released by the Nigerian Army today via their official Facebook handle.

The operation took place on January 28, 2026, after the troops received credible intelligence on the activities of the criminal group.

Acting swiftly, the soldiers moved into the forest in a coordinated mission alongside operatives of the Zango Kataf Police Area Command, members of the Civilian Joint Task Force, Forest Guards, and local hunters.

According to military sources, the joint team advanced deep into the forest and made contact with the kidnappers at about 5:59 p.m. The criminals reportedly became overwhelmed by the firepower and tactical advance of the security forces. They abandoned their captives and escaped into nearby bushes.

As a result of the operation, eight victims were rescued without injuries and later reunited with their families. Those freed are Mrs Rashida Musa (19), Mrs Hafsat Nuhu (18), Mr Zakari Saleh (52), Miss Hasiya Yahaya (13), Mr Ahmed Yahaya (14), Mr Ibrahim Saiba (11), Miss Salma Yahaya (14), and Mr Sophan Idris (18).

The operation highlights the Nigerian Army’s continued cooperation with other security agencies and local support groups. It also reflects ongoing efforts to safeguard lives, secure key areas, and limit the activities of criminal groups within Kaduna State and beyond.

By TDR

Soldiers attached to the 133 Special Forces Battalion in Azare, Katagum Local Government Area of Bauchi State, have accused their Commanding Officer, Lt. Col. A.K. Kachalla, of compelling troops stationed at checkpoints to remit weekly financial “returns” of as much as ₦500,000, with the threat of redeployment for those who fail to comply.

The allegations were disclosed by several military sources who spoke with newsmen on condition of anonymity on Wednesday.

According to SaharaReporters, one of the sources said soldiers are frequently posted to checkpoints on major routes such as Kano Road, Maiduguri Road, Dambam, and Jama’are, where they are allegedly expected to collect money from motorists and passengers.

“Soldiers will be deployed to a checkpoint to be collecting money from passengers and a commanding officer will be waiting for return of ₦500,000 every week,” the source alleged. “If the soldiers didn’t meet up with the demands, they will change them immediately from the checkpoint and bring new soldiers.”

Another source described the alleged practice as entrenched, adding that it started shortly after Lt. Col. Kachalla assumed command of the battalion.

“Since this CO took over, things have gone from bad to worse,” the source said.

The same source complained about deteriorating living conditions within the barracks, particularly irregular power supply.

“Apart from the extortion at checkpoints, we don’t have regular electricity supply anymore. We only have light for about four hours out of 24 hours.”

The soldiers also alleged that water supply in the barracks has broken down, which they said has created serious hardship for their families.

“There is no water in the barracks. Women are suffering seriously just to get water for daily use,” one soldier said.

They compared the current situation with conditions under a former commander, Lt. Col. P.O. Mukoro, who is now a colonel.

“We remember during Lt. Col. P.O. Mukoro, now Col. P.O. Mukoro, we enjoyed 24 hours light and water everywhere,” a source said. “He is one of the best commanding officers the unit has ever had, and we are still missing him till now.”

The soldiers called on the military authorities to step in without delay.

“We are calling on the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, and the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu, for the removal of Lt. Col. A.K. Kachalla as the Commanding Officer of 133 SF BN,” one source said.

They also urged the military high command to order an independent investigation into the alleged extortion linked to checkpoint postings.

“The issue of checkpoint deployment return must be properly investigated,” another source said. “This is damaging the image of the Army and destroying morale among soldiers.”

By Sabiu Abdullahi

The Nigerian Army has recorded another operational success after troops rescued eleven kidnapped persons during a late-night operation carried out on January 26, 2026, along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway.

The rescue followed the detection of armed terrorists who attempted to relocate their captives through the Gidan Duna–Amale bush path under the cover of darkness. Troops from the Forward Operating Base, Doka, spotted the movement through high-definition long-range CCTV surveillance and quickly moved to intercept the suspects.

Security sources said the soldiers launched a coordinated pursuit with tactical vehicles and motorcycles. The swift response put pressure on the criminals and forced them to abandon the victims before fleeing into nearby bushes, which stopped their attempt to escape deeper into the hinterland.

Those rescued included five adult men, three adult women, and three children. The victims were abducted from the Gada Mallam Maman Community on October 26, 2025, and had remained in captivity for 92 days.

Military authorities said the operation demonstrated the Army’s ability to combine modern surveillance equipment with effective ground action. They added that the force remains committed to protecting lives, securing major routes, and denying criminal groups any freedom of movement at all times.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of Sector 2 of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE (OPWS), have uncovered an illegal arms manufacturing site in Nasarawa State, leading to the arrest of a suspect and the recovery of weapons and cash.

This is contained in a statement signed by AHMAD ZUBAIRU ZUBAIRU, Lieutenant, Acting Media Information Officer, Headquarters JTF Operation WHIRL STROKE, on 26 January 2026.

The operation took place in Agwatashi, Doma Local Government Area, where troops deployed at the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Idadu carried out a fighting and confidence-building patrol. The patrol formed part of ongoing efforts to restrict the activities of criminal elements in the area.

During the operation, the soldiers discovered a hidden location believed to be used for the production of locally made firearms. Several suspects reportedly fled when they sighted the patrol. One of them, identified as Baba Ogar, a 26-year-old male from Arusu village in Kokona Local Government Area, was arrested while attempting to escape by hiding on top of a tree.

Items recovered from the site included six locally fabricated pistols, various tools suspected to be used for weapon production, the sum of ₦40,500, and a mobile phone found with the suspect.

Initial findings suggest that the site functioned as an illegal arms factory that supplied firearms to criminal groups within and outside the area. The suspect remains in custody, while security forces have stepped up efforts to locate and arrest other suspects who escaped.

The Force Commander of the Joint Task Force, Operation WHIRL STROKE, Major General Moses Gara, praised the troops for their alertness, discipline, and sustained pressure, which led to the discovery of the illegal facility. He urged them to sustain the operational drive and rely on intelligence-based actions to dismantle criminal networks across the Joint Operations Area.

Major General Gara also highlighted the importance of public support, calling on residents to continue providing timely and credible information. He noted that useful intelligence remains key to lasting security and economic development.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Troops of the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force under Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 have recorded major gains during a military operation in the Sububu Forest area of Maradun Local Government Area, Zamfara State.

The development was confirmed in a statement signed by Captain David Adewusi, Media Information Officer, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, on January 24, 2026.

The operation targeted terrorist hideouts within the forest and led to the neutralisation of six terrorists, the recovery of weapons, the destruction of operational assets, and the rescue of a kidnapped underage victim.

Military sources said the offensive began at Indulumu village, where troops engaged terrorists in a gun battle. Two of the terrorists were neutralised during the encounter, while one AK-47 rifle was recovered from the scene.

The troops later advanced to Ruduno village, where they faced renewed resistance. Four more terrorists were neutralised during the confrontation. Soldiers also recovered another AK-47 rifle and a magazine containing 28 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition.

Two motorcycles used by the terrorists for movement and logistics were destroyed at the location.

During further clearance operations inside the forest, the troops rescued an underage girl, identified as Halira Ibrahim, who had been held captive by the terrorists. The rescue brought an end to her captivity and reunited her with safety.

The operation also led to the destruction of several terrorist camps and support structures located in Magaji, Galakaje, Filinga and Kukatara communities.

Security sources said the action has disrupted the ability of the terrorists to regroup and maintain supply routes within the area.

The operation formed part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore peace in Zamfara State.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

The Depot Nigerian Army (NA), Zaria, has denied reports claiming a recruit, Ibrahim Nazifi, died during military training at the facility.

The Depot, in a statement released on Saturday, described the reports as “false” and inconsistent with its official records.

According to the Depot’s records, Ibrahim Nazifi, an indigene of Gombe State with application number 90RRI-GO-9017726, successfully passed the state recruitment screening in December 2025 and was shortlisted for training.

However, the Army stated that Nazifi “never reported to the Depot for commencement of his training” and was never admitted into the programme.

Consequently, the Depot clarified it has “no record of his presence, participation, injury or death during training.”

In light of the situation, the Depot has called on the Gombe State Government and other relevant authorities to launch an investigation to determine where, when, and how the alleged death occurred, emphasising that such an incident did not happen within its premises.

The statement acknowledged that military training is rigorous by design, meant to build endurance and combat readiness.

While admitting that demanding training can, in rare instances, lead to casualties, the Army stressed this is not due to negligence.

It highlighted that robust safety measures, medical coverage, and risk-mitigation procedures are in place to protect trainees.

The public was urged to disregard the reports and avoid spreading unverified information that could mislead the public and damage the Nigerian Army’s reputation.

The Depot NA Zaria reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, transparency, and the welfare of all recruits undergoing training.

By Sabiu Abdullahi

Nigerian troops and suspected terrorists were involved in a gun duel in Obajana town, Kogi State, where the Dangote Cement plant, reputed as Africa’s largest cement factory with a capacity of 16.25 million metric tonnes per annum, is located.

The incident was said to have occurred on Saturday night.Security analyst Zagazola Makama disclosed the development on Sunday through his X handle.

He stated that the exchange of fire followed an attempt by suspected terrorists to gain access into the community.

“There was an exchange of gunfire between Nigerian troops and suspected terrorists in Obajana town, Kogi State, on Saturday night, as security forces sustained ongoing clearance operations in the area.

“Troops are engaging the terrorists who were reportedly attempting to infiltrate the community,” he wrote on X.

As at the time of filing this report, the Defence Headquarters had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.

It will be recalled that scores of terrorists were recently neutralised during a joint operation carried out by the Nigeria Police and the military in Kogi forests.

By Uzair Adam

At least 23 suspected bandits were neutralised in a coordinated military operation after armed groups launched attacks on Shanono and Tsanyawa local government areas of Kano State between the night of January 1 and the early hours of January 2, 2026, according to the Nigerian Army.

The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, Major Babatunde Zubairu, who said the operation involved joint task force troops on the ground and the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.

According to the statement, troops successfully contained the attacks in Kano. They inflicted heavy casualties on the assailants before tracking the fleeing bandits to Karaduwa village in Matazu Local Government Area of neighbouring Katsina State. 

Acting on credible intelligence, the Air Component pursued the group as they attempted to regroup after escaping Kano.

The Army said intelligence reports revealed that the bandits were in the process of burying some of their members killed during the initial clashes when they were located at Dan Marke in Matazu LGA. 

Air Component Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA reportedly trailed their movement until several motorcycles converged after crossing a dry riverbed.

“A precision airstrike was immediately launched,” the statement said, noting that the operation was supported by aerial Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance missions. 

The strike, according to the Army, resulted in the neutralisation of at least 23 terrorists, while several others were believed to have sustained injuries. 

It also damaged the group’s weapons and other equipment.

Reacting to the operation’s outcome, the Commander of 3 Brigade, Nigerian Army, commended both the air and ground troops for their exceptional courage. 

“Their bravery and resilience in the face of adversity are commendable,” he said.

The Army added that the security situation in Kano State remains calm, with troops sustaining robust patrols and close monitoring of flashpoints. 

It stated that troop morale and operational efficiency remain “very satisfactory.”

The Nigerian Army also appealed to the public to continue supporting security agencies by providing timely and credible information.

Such cooperation, it said, would further aid efforts to disrupt banditry and other terrorist activities.

Major Zubairu stressed that troops, working alongside other security agencies, remain committed to safeguarding lives and property nationwide and will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure national security.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of the Nigerian Army in northeast Nigeria have recovered a major stockpile of heavy ammunition, security forces announced.

Acting on a tip, soldiers from Operation HADIN KAI, alongside police bomb disposal experts, responded to the Bulumkutu Railway area on Friday afternoon.

A search of a concealed drainage channel uncovered 1,270 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition warheads, including live rounds, and power banks.The discovery followed recent, sustained military activity and operations against suicide bombers in the region.

The military stated the find was a result of “actionable intelligence” aimed at restricting terrorist movements.

The site has been secured and efforts are underway to drain the channel for a further search. No casualties were reported during the operation, and the area remains calm under heightened security.

Authorities praised the public’s role in providing the initial tip, urging continued vigilance and reporting of suspicious activity to maintain security.

By Abdullahi Mukhtar Algasgaini

Troops of the Nigerian Army’s 13 Brigade executed a successful rescue operation on Sunday, freeing eight civilians abducted by suspected militants along the Ikang-Cameroon waterways.

Acting on a tip-off from local residents, soldiers from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Ikang swiftly mobilized after learning that gunmen had intercepted a commercial boat and seized its passengers—six adults and two minors.

A military spokesman said the troops deployed rapidly, blocking escape routes and dominating the area. Under pressure, the militants abandoned their captives at the Ini-Abasi Fishing Port and fled toward the open sea. All eight victims were recovered unharmed.

After documentation and debriefing at the brigade headquarters, the rescued individuals were released to their families. No casualties were reported during the mission.

Brigadier General PO Alimikhena, Commander of 13 Brigade, praised his troops for their professionalism and thanked the community for the timely intelligence. He reaffirmed the army’s commitment to maintaining aggressive patrols to deny criminals freedom of action in the region.

The public is urged to continue providing credible information to security agencies.