Since May 2023, Nigerian security forces have neutralized more than 13,543 terrorists and other criminal elements across the country, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, announced on Thursday.
Speaking at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Policy and Development Summit held at the State House Banquet Hall in Abuja, Ribadu highlighted the progress made by the military and intelligence agencies in their ongoing fight against terrorism.
He stated that during the past two years under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, operations nationwide have resulted in the deaths of over 13,500 insurgents and criminals.
Ribadu further disclosed that approximately 124,408 members of Boko Haram, the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP), and their relatives have surrendered to Nigerian forces and are currently participating in the government’s de-radicalisation and reintegration programs.
“Our troops have neutralized 13,543 terrorists so far,” he said, adding that security forces have also recovered and destroyed 252,596 rounds of various ammunition.
The announcement comes amid Nigeria’s persistent struggles with insurgency, banditry, and separatist violence affecting several regions — from Boko Haram’s insurgency in the Northeast to criminal activities in the Northwest, North Central, and the South.
The Northeast insurgency, which began in 2009, has caused over 350,000 deaths and displaced more than two million people, according to United Nations figures.
Despite security forces’ ongoing efforts, Boko Haram continues to launch attacks, especially in Borno and Yobe states.
Recent months have witnessed renewed violence, including killings in Plateau, Benue, and Borno.
Ribadu credited the improved security landscape to stronger cooperation among security agencies, increased intelligence efforts, and robust political support.
The APC National Policy and Development Summit was convened to evaluate the Tinubu administration’s performance since taking office.