Nigerian Military Reports Significant Security Gains in Nationwide Offensive

Nigeria's Armed Forces have intensified their nationwide offensive against various criminal elements, reporting significant operational successes between July 17 and July 23, 2026. The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) stated that troops sustained pressure on criminal networks, aiming to dismantle terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, and crude oil theft operations across the country.

Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the military's coordinated approach, which involves intelligence-led operations, offensive raids, and multi-agency collaboration. These efforts led to the neutralization of terrorists and other criminals, the arrest of collaborators and logistics suppliers, and the rescue of kidnapped victims. Additionally, troops recovered a substantial cache of arms, ammunition, and logistics intended for insurgent groups.

In the North-east, Operation Hadin Kai achieved notable successes against Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), including foiling an attempted infiltration of the University of Maiduguri and rescuing abducted women and children. Meanwhile, Operation Fansan Yamma in the North-west led to the arrest of terrorist collaborators and the rescue of 11 abducted passengers on the Gummi-Sokoto Road. Operations in the North-central region focused on combating kidnappers and armed criminals, resulting in further rescues and arrests. The Niger Delta saw Operation Delta Safe dismantling illegal refining sites and arresting suspects involved in oil theft and pipeline vandalism.

The military also emphasized its role in securing strategic national corridors, such as major road and rail networks, to ensure the safe movement of people, goods, and services. This comprehensive approach aims to address the country's diverse security threats and restore stability.

“

The latest operational outcomes reflected the military’s coordinated approach to tackling the country’s diverse security threats through intelligence-led operations, offensive raids and multi-agency collaboration.