The Nigerian military has reported significant progress in its ongoing operations against insecurity across the country, with key successes recorded in September 2025.

According to the Defence Headquarters, troops rescued 180 kidnapped civilians, arrested 450 terrorists and bandits, and killed numerous criminal elements during raids and counter-attacks. Additionally, 39 terrorists voluntarily surrendered to security forces within the month.

Arms and Explosives Seized

Major General Markus Kangye, Director of Defence Media Operations, disclosed that troops recovered 63 assorted arms, 4,475 rounds of ammunition, and 294 explosive devices, including grenades and improvised explosive device (IED) components. Equipment used by criminals, such as vehicles, motorcycles, hand-held radios, and other logistics materials, were also seized.

Operations Across the Country

  • Northeast: Troops under Operation Hadin Kai targeted Boko Haram, ISWAP, and JAS terrorists in Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states. Multiple encounters led to the elimination of several terrorists, the arrest of 21 collaborators, and the recovery of arms, ammunition, and logistics supplies.

  • Northwest: Operation Fasan Yamma saw troops carry out operations in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kano, Kebbi, and Kaduna states. The military reported killing several terrorists, rescuing 13 kidnapped victims, and arresting 46 suspects, including wanted terrorist Ali Saidu.

  • North Central: Under Operation Enduring Peace, troops conducted offensive operations in Plateau, Kaduna, Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, and the FCT. Firefights resulted in the death of extremists, the arrest of 18 suspects, and the rescue of six kidnapped individuals.

  • South-South: Operation Delta Safe foiled oil theft valued at over N20 million, destroyed illegal refineries and crude oil cooking sites, and arrested eight suspects. Troops also recovered weapons, ammunition, and stolen natural resources.

  • South-East: Operation Udoka targeted criminals in Anambra and Imo states, resulting in one terrorist killed, four arrests, and the seizure of weapons, vehicles, and IEDs.

Defence Headquarters Statement

Major General Kangye emphasized that the operations aimed to disrupt criminal networks, secure key areas, and support humanitarian efforts. He assured that the military remains committed to lawful conduct, transparency, and the protection of civilians.

"Our gallant troops, in collaboration with other security agencies and hybrid forces, will continue working to restore peace and security across all troubled regions of the country," Kangye said.