The Federal Government has pushed back against growing public criticism over insecurity, unveiling a series of recent military operations across the country which it says demonstrate significant progress in the fight against terrorism, banditry and organised crime.
In a detailed account of security activities nationwide, the Presidency said troops of the Nigerian Armed Forces have recorded multiple successes across key theatres, including the North-East, North-West, North-Central and parts of the South-East, rescuing kidnapped victims, neutralising insurgents and dismantling criminal networks.
According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, public perception often overlooks these achievements, focusing instead on isolated incidents.
“Some Nigerians are quick to criticise the Federal Government over perceived shortcomings in security, but such views downplay the heroic exploits of our armed forces confronting non-state actors,” he said.
The government cited the rescue of 13 passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo as one of the standout operations.
Troops conducted a coordinated search-and-rescue mission in Ohimini Local Government Area, securing the victims, including candidates preparing for the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination.
Security sources clarified that the kidnappers were local criminal elements, countering earlier reports attributing the attack to external groups.
In Plateau State, he said troops under Operation Enduring Peace intensified operations, arresting suspected militia members linked to targeted killings and recovering weapons and ammunition, adding that the suspects, intercepted while moving towards Danwal area, were reportedly found with bloodstains, suggesting recent involvement in violent attacks.
Onanuga said: “The patterns we are seeing indicate that many of these violent actors are embedded within local communities rather than operating as distant, faceless groups.”
He said the military also responded to multiple incidents in the state, including clashes between farmers and herders, ambushes on civilians, and attempted cattle rustling, with several arrests and recoveries recorded.
“In the North-East, troops of Operation Hadin Kai foiled attempted attacks by Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents, neutralising fighters along the Kirawa-Pulka axis and recovering communication equipment. Additional operations in Yobe led to the arrest of suspected logistics suppliers supporting insurgent groups.
“Security forces also repelled attacks in Borno communities, discovered and safely detonated improvised explosive devices, and continued clearance operations in affected areas.
“Further operations in Sokoto State saw troops of 8 Division repel an attack by armed groups in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, forcing attackers to retreat after a gun battle.
“In Kogi State, troops destroyed a suspected terrorist camp and intercepted a logistics courier believed to be supplying insurgents, while joint security forces in Imo State uncovered and defused improvised explosive devices during patrol operations,” the presidency disclosed.
The government also pointed to international engagement, noting Nigeria’s participation in global counterterrorism discussions, including contributions by Defence Minister Christopher Musa at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Türkiye.
While acknowledging that challenges persist, the Presidency maintained that ongoing operations reflect sustained efforts to restore security and stability nationwide.
“Our troops are resolutely prosecuting this asymmetric war, making sacrifices and defending the country. What they deserve is appreciation, not condemnation,” Onanuga said.
