By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have neutralised several top terrorist commanders in ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminality across the country.
The Nigerian defence authorities disclosed that hundreds of notorious terrorist leaders—many of whom were on the military’s wanted list—have been eliminated across various theatres of operation.
Among the high-profile terrorist commanders, their lieutenants, and foot soldiers taken out are Aminu Kanawa, Dan Bokolo, Bello Buba, Dan Inna, Halilu Sabubu, Abu Dan Shehu Jabbi, Dogo Bashiru Yellow, Abba Allai (also known as Amirul Khalid of Alafa), Amir Abu Fatimah, Kingpin Auta, Abdul Jamilu, Salisu, Malla Jidda, Talha, Mallam Umar, Abu Yazeed, Kabiru Bebe, Maiwada, Mai Dada, and Nwachi Eze (aka Onowu).
Other notorious bandits eliminated include those known by the pseudonyms Dosso, Suleiman, Jagaban, and Danja.
The Director of Defence Media Operations (DDMO), Major General Michael Onoja, made the disclosure while addressing Defence Correspondents on Thursday in Abuja during a briefing on end-of-year military operations.
Maj. Gen. Onoja stated that the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) is aware that some terrorist factions are relocating to certain communities in response to sustained military pressure on their strongholds.
“Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets are actively monitoring terrorist movements across various operational theatres. Several movements have been identified and are currently being tracked,” he said.
He affirmed that the Armed Forces of Nigeria, in collaboration with other security agencies, have intensified proactive measures to prevent fleeing terrorists from infiltrating or destabilising communities.
According to him, troops have continued to conduct both kinetic and non-kinetic operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, neutralising specific threats, protecting civilians, and creating a secure environment for economic activities to thrive.
Providing an overview of military operations conducted nationwide in 2025, Maj. Gen. Onoja highlighted significant operational achievements in the sustained effort to safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty, protect lives and property, and uphold national security.
He added that troops have continued to adapt to evolving security challenges.
Within the period under review, troops arrested 4,375 suspects, received the surrender of 1,616 terrorists and their family members, and successfully rescued 2,336 kidnapped victims.
He further revealed that troops of Operation DELTA SAFE thwarted oil theft valued at ₦8,918,647,206.
The Director noted that reports of an influx of armed herders into some communities are being taken seriously by defence authorities. He urged citizens to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative with security agencies, while encouraging prompt reporting of any suspicious movements or activities.
Maj. Gen. Onoja reaffirmed the Defence Headquarters’ unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and maintaining national security, stressing that the AFN and other security stakeholders remain resolute in denying terrorists, insurgents, bandits, kidnappers, and other criminal elements freedom of action across the country.
He added that the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General OO Oloyede, personally commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, assuring Nigerians of the military’s continued determination to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
