Soldiers Kill Over 200 Terrorists, Arrest 284 in April Operations

The Nigerian Armed Forces have reported substantial successes in their counter-terrorism efforts throughout April 2026, demonstrating a robust commitment to national security. According to the Defence Headquarters, troops across various theatres of operation neutralized 216 terrorists, apprehended 284 suspects, and crucially, rescued 188 abducted civilians. These figures represent a significant stride in the ongoing campaign to rid the nation of criminal elements and restore peace to affected communities.

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During this period, the Armed Forces neutralised over 200 terrorists in multiple engagements, rescued 188 abducted civilians—including women, children, the elderly, farmers, and worshippers—and restored them to their families. Troops also stormed and destroyed terrorist camps, IED-laden hideouts, and illegal arms production facilities, while arresting 284 key ring leaders, logisticians, and collaborators.

The operational breakdown reveals concentrated efforts in the North-East, where 136 terrorists were neutralized and 144 suspects arrested. The North-West also saw considerable action, with 24 terrorists killed and 32 arrests made. Operations in the North-Central, South-South, and South-East regions also contributed to the overall gains, with troops dismantling terrorist camps, destroying illegal arms production facilities, and recovering substantial quantities of arms and ammunition. The rescue of 188 victims, including women, children, the elderly, farmers, and worshippers, underscores the humanitarian impact of these military operations.

Maj.-Gen. Michael Onoja, the Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted that these successes extend beyond mere statistics. Each rescued victim signifies a family reunited, and each dismantled hideout represents a community reclaimed from the grip of terror. This narrative emphasizes the profound human element behind the military's actions and their dedication to safeguarding the Nigerian populace.

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Behind every rescued victim is a family made whole, and behind every destroyed enclave is a community reclaimed.

Furthermore, the military leadership assures the public of its unwavering commitment to accountability. All operations are conducted in strict adherence to the rules of engagement, the laws of armed conflict, and international humanitarian law. The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has reiterated that no criminal or terrorist organization, regardless of its resources or reach, is beyond the capacity of the Armed Forces of Nigeria. This message aims to reassure citizens and reinforce the military's resolve to protect all communities across the nation.

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The CDS assures every Nigerian that all communities are considered important to the AFN’s protection, and no criminal or terrorist organisation, regardless of its financial resources, geographic spread, or ideological ambition, is beyond the AFN.