Nigerian Army troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have uncovered and destroyed a makeshift medical facility used by terrorists in a forest in the North-West, as security forces sustained fresh offensives against armed groups operating in the region.
The discovery was made during coordinated military operations carried out between January 21 and 22, 2026, across parts of the Joint Operations Area in the North-West. The operations were led by troops of the Joint Task Force North West, with support from other security agencies.
According to a statement released by the Media Information Officer of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Captain David Adewusi, the troops recorded major gains as they maintained pressure on terrorist groups that have continued to threaten lives and property in the region.
One of the key encounters took place in Gundumi Village, located in Isa Local Government Area. Troops of the 8 Division Garrison Strike Force, working alongside assets of the Department of State Services (DSS), engaged terrorists during a fighting patrol.
During the clash, one terrorist was neutralised, while others fled into the surrounding forest with gunshot wounds. The troops also recovered six AK-47 rifles and three motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists for attacks and quick movement across communities.
Security sources said the recovery of the weapons and motorcycles would significantly reduce the ability of the terrorists to launch further attacks in the area.
In another major operation, troops from 1 Brigade, working with the Headquarters Joint Task Force Operation FANSAN YAMMA Mobile Strike Team, acted on credible intelligence that injured terrorists were being treated inside the Bingi Forest.
The troops moved swiftly to the location and discovered a makeshift medical facility hidden deep in the forest. The facility was reportedly being used to treat wounded fighters who escaped during previous clashes with security forces.
The soldiers destroyed the facility on the spot, dealing what the army described as a serious blow to the terrorists’ support system. Pictures released by the military showed medical supplies, drugs, and basic treatment equipment believed to have been used by the armed groups.
Military officials said the destruction of the forest clinic would limit the ability of the terrorists to recover from injuries and return to the battlefield.
Captain Adewusi said the operations showed the determination of troops to dismantle not just the fighting units of terrorist groups, but also their logistics, medical, and supply networks.
“These successes reflect the unwavering determination and responsiveness of Operation FANSAN YAMMA to decisively degrade terrorist networks and restore peace and security across the North West,” he said.
The North-West region has in recent years faced serious security challenges linked to armed banditry and terrorist activities. States such as Zamfara, Katsina, Sokoto, Kebbi, and parts of Kaduna have witnessed attacks on villages, abductions of residents, and ambushes on travellers.
Many of these armed groups operate from forests that stretch across state borders, using the difficult terrain as cover. The forests have also served as camps where weapons are stored, hostages kept, and injured fighters treated.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA was launched by the Nigerian military to address these threats through coordinated ground and air operations. The operation involves the army, air force, intelligence agencies, and other security services working together to flush out criminal groups and protect communities.
A resident of Isa Local Government Area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the recent military actions have brought some relief to communities that have lived in fear for years.
“Anytime the army comes out like this, we feel safer. These people hide in the forest and come out to attack villages. Destroying their hideouts and clinics will reduce their strength,” the resident said.
The Nigerian Army has continued to urge residents to support security efforts by providing timely and credible information. Officials say intelligence from locals has played a major role in recent successes.
In recent months, troops under Operation FANSAN YAMMA have reported several victories, including the rescue of kidnapped victims, destruction of terrorist camps, and recovery of weapons. The military says these efforts are part of a long-term plan to restore peace and allow displaced persons to return to their homes.
Despite these gains, security agencies acknowledge that challenges remain. The vast forest areas, cross-border movements, and access to illegal weapons have made the fight against terrorism and banditry complex.
However, the army says it remains committed to sustaining pressure on the armed groups until they are fully neutralised.
Captain Adewusi said the troops would continue to conduct patrols, raids, and intelligence-driven operations to deny terrorists freedom of movement and safe havens.
As operations continue across the North-West, residents are hopeful that sustained military action will lead to lasting peace, reopen farmlands, and restore normal economic and social activities in affected communities.