DHQ: Military Records Major Gains, Neutralises 555 Terrorists in Three Months, With 324 Killed in August
Published by Sola Akingboye, 1 September 2026
The Nigerian military latest reports intensified efforts against terrorists and criminal groups nationwide, with 555 terrorists neutralised and 1,209 arrests in three months. Of these, 324 terrorists were killed in August alone
Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated during August media briefings in Abuja that 201 insurgents surrendered during the period, and troops recovered 88 weapons and 2,077 rounds of ammunition.
Operations also led to the arrest of 373 suspects and the rescue of 610 kidnapping victims in August.
The military also recovered 686,800 litres of stolen crude oil and destroyed 21 illegal refineries, demonstrating ongoing efforts to restore security and boost socio-economic development.
The August data showed a substantial decline in terrorist and criminal activity compared to July, with a 20.9% decrease in fatalities and arrests dropping by 29%.
However, August saw a significant rebound, with a 217.6% increase in killings, an 8.1% rise in arrests, and a 55.2% jump in rescued civilians.
The number of insurgents surrendering increased steadily over three months, reaching 201 in August.
The operations indicate improved effectiveness due to intensified kinetic and non-kinetic measures, better intelligence, and greater inter-agency cooperation.
The fight against crude oil theft continues to be fruitful, as shown by the recovery of nearly 686,800 litres of stolen oil and the destruction of 21 illegal sites.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, praised troops across different operational areas for their bravery, discipline, resilience, and dedication.
Oluyede acknowledged the sacrifices made by military personnel in rescuing abducted citizens, combating terrorists and armed criminals, dismantling criminal and secessionist groups, stopping illegal oil bunkering, and safeguarding key national assets.
“The Chief of Defence Staff commends the gallantry, discipline, resilience and unrelenting resolve of troops across all theatres of operation for the successes recorded during the reporting period,” the statement said.
He also extended sympathies to the families of civilians and security personnel who lost their lives during this period and wished injured personnel and victims a quick recovery.
He commended the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, local security groups, and other agencies for their ongoing operational cooperation.
Furthermore, the Defence Chief expressed appreciation to traditional rulers, community leaders, and the public for providing credible information and cooperating with security efforts.
He also praised the media for its professionalism and responsible reporting of military actions, encouraging continued partnership in informing the public while maintaining operational security.
In a related report, Oluyede recognised a recent act of patriotism by Air Peace, where military personnel received a standing ovation from airline staff and passengers at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja.
This gesture followed a directive from the airline’s Chairman, Mr Allen Onyema, that priority boarding and recognition be given to military and police personnel for their service and sacrifices.
“The CDS sincerely and profoundly appreciates this heartfelt display of goodwill and urges other companies, institutions, and citizens to support and honour those defending Nigeria,” the statement added.
The Armed Forces assured Nigerians of their ongoing commitment to maintain operational momentum, protect lives and property, and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“The AFN reassures all Nigerians that it remains resolute in maintaining the current operational tempo, safeguarding lives and property, defending the nation’s territory, and collaborating with stakeholders until peace, stability, and security are firmly established nationwide,” it stated.
The military urged the public to continue sharing timely and accurate information with the nearest military unit or through its toll-free line, 193, assuring confidentiality of all reports.
