The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported progress in the country’s fight against terrorism and insurgency, revealing that Nigerian troops eliminated 358 terrorists, arrested 431 suspects, and rescued 249 hostages in January 2025.
The update was shared by DHQ spokesperson Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba in a statement on Friday, which highlighted the military’s continued operations across various regions of Nigeria.
The operations also led to the recovery of 370 weapons and 4,972 rounds of ammunition, including 105 AK47 rifles, 32 Dane guns, 23 pump-action shotguns, and thousands of rounds of both NATO and 7.62mm special ammunition.
In the North-East, Operation Hadin Kai made notable strides, eliminating 193 terrorists, apprehending 89 suspects, and rescuing 39 hostages.
The operation also saw 95 Boko Haram/ISWAP militants and their families surrender to the military.
In the North-Central, Operations Safe Haven and Whirl Stroke resulted in the neutralization of 22 extremists, the arrest of 149 individuals, and the rescue of 73 hostages, alongside the seizure of weapons and ammunition.
Operation Fasan Yamma in the North-West led to the elimination of 102 terrorists, the arrest of 134 suspects, and the rescue of 100 kidnapped victims.
The troops also seized a significant amount of weaponry and ammunition.
In the South-South, Operation Delta Safe targeted oil thieves, apprehending 59 individuals and preventing the theft of approximately N2 billion worth of crude oil.
The operation also led to the recovery of 2.7 million liters of stolen crude and over 40,000 liters of illicit petroleum products.
Finally, Operation UDO KA in the South-East neutralized 41 terrorists, arrested 57 suspects, and rescued 37 hostages.
Maj.-Gen. Buba concluded by reaffirming the Nigerian military’s unwavering commitment to securing the nation and protecting its citizens from terrorist threats and other criminal activities.