In what is being hailed as a significant breakthrough in the ongoing war against terrorism, over 16,000 terrorist fighters and their families have surrendered to Nigerian troops in the past year, marking a pivotal success for the nation’s military operations. The victory comes after a year of sustained military action, with troops from various operations across Nigeria reporting substantial achievements in their fight against terrorism, banditry, and organized crime.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the remarkable accomplishments of Nigeria’s military forces over the last 12 months. According to General Buba, a total of 16,171 terrorists, along with their families, voluntarily surrendered, signaling a shift in the dynamics of the ongoing conflict. This surge in defections has been attributed to the sustained pressure from the military and the growing realization among militants that the tide is turning in favor of Nigeria’s armed forces.
“These militants’ decision to lay down their arms is a testament to the unwavering commitment of our troops,” General Buba remarked. “The successful surrender of over 16,000 terrorists and their families is a major accomplishment in our efforts to restore peace and security to Nigeria.”
In addition to these surrenders, the military’s offensive operations have yielded impressive results, including the elimination of 10,937 terrorists, the apprehension of 12,538 suspects, and the rescue of 7,063 kidnapped victims. The scale of these operations underscores the breadth of the military’s fight against terrorist groups and their criminal networks that have long terrorized Nigeria’s northern and central regions.
Terrorist Leaders on the Run
The past year has also seen the neutralization of over a thousand high-profile terrorist commanders and combatants. Among the notable names eliminated were notorious figures like Dutse Mainasara Idda, Mallam Saleh Umaru, and Chinemerem (aka Bam Bam), who were known for their involvement in deadly attacks across the country. The military’s strategic targeting of these leaders has dealt a heavy blow to the organizational capabilities of terrorist groups operating within Nigeria.
“We are not just fighting foot soldiers,” General Buba explained. “We are going after the commanders, the ringleaders who orchestrate these attacks. Our success in eliminating key terrorist leaders has significantly crippled their operational effectiveness.”
The military has also reported a significant recovery of weapons, ammunition, and illicit goods. In the course of operations, troops recovered over 8,800 firearms and 228,000 rounds of ammunition. The armed forces also managed to disrupt oil theft operations worth an estimated N68 billion, seizing over 56 million liters of stolen crude oil and nearly 10 million liters of illegal refined products.
These figures highlight the military’s success not only in combating terrorism but also in targeting the criminal networks that fund these groups through illicit activities such as oil theft and arms smuggling.
Operation Hadin Kai: A Top Performer
Among the various military operations, Operation Hadin Kai has emerged as the standout performer. The operation, which focuses on the northeastern part of Nigeria, has neutralized over 3,000 terrorists, making it the most successful of the year. The operation’s success can be attributed to its targeted approach, including intelligence-gathering, strategic airstrikes, and close coordination with regional security forces.
Other operations, such as Operation Delta Safe in the Niger Delta and Operation Whirl Punch in the Middle Belt, have also contributed to the overall success, with each operation recording substantial kills and arrests. However, the number of terrorist eliminations in these regions pales in comparison to the overwhelming success of Operation Hadin Kai.
General Buba was quick to note that these victories are not the result of military action alone. “We need the support of the entire nation,” he emphasized. “The battle against terrorism is not just a military responsibility but a collective effort. Our success depends on the collaboration of citizens, law enforcement agencies, and the military.”
The Fight Against Banditry: Targeting Bello Turji
While the military celebrates its successes, the battle is far from over. One of the most notorious figures in the country’s fight against terrorism, bandit leader Bello Turji, remains at large. Known for his brutal attacks on communities in the northwest, Turji has gained widespread notoriety after issuing threats against the elderly and demanding the release of his ally, Baka Wurgi, from military custody.
In a viral video that circulated late last year, Turji declared that he would target elderly citizens if the government refused to free Wurgi. The video, which sent shockwaves through Nigeria, prompted a swift response from General Buba, who did not mince words in his reply.
“Bello Turji is a dead man walking,” Buba declared firmly. “We will not negotiate with terrorists. Just as we have eliminated other terrorist leaders before him, we will deal with him in the same way.”
The military’s resolve to eliminate Turji has been bolstered by the surrender of several of his followers, who have given vital information on his whereabouts and operational tactics. Security forces have since intensified their efforts to capture him, with raids and intelligence operations aimed at dismantling his criminal network.
Katsina State: A Success Story
Katsina State, located in the northwest, has also seen significant successes in the fight against banditry. According to the state’s Commissioner of Police, Aliyu Abubakar Musa, 40 terrorists were killed, and 319 kidnapped victims were rescued by the police. The release of these victims has been a source of relief for the state, which has been severely affected by abductions for ransom.
“The efforts of our security forces have disrupted the operations of bandits in our region,” Musa said during a press briefing. “We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for the suffering of our people are brought to justice.”
Musa also highlighted the recovery of 2,081 rustled animals, which were returned to their rightful owners, helping to restore livelihoods and boost the local economy. In total, the Katsina Police command apprehended hundreds of criminals, including 199 suspected armed robbers and 32 suspected vandals.
A Unified Effort
As Nigeria continues to grapple with terrorism and banditry, it is clear that a multifaceted approach is required. The military’s efforts have been crucial in weakening terrorist organizations, but General Buba’s statement is a stark reminder that the fight is far from over.
“We are in this fight for the long haul,” Buba concluded. “The road to peace may be long and difficult, but with continued determination and national unity, we will emerge victorious.”
