Nigerian troops have achieved a major breakthrough in the fight against terrorism, neutralising 10,937 terrorists and capturing 12,538 others over the past year.
Major General Edward Buba, spokesperson for Defence Media Operations (DMO), shared these figures during a briefing to mark the end of 2024 in Abuja. He revealed that the troops also rescued 7,063 hostages, recovering a staggering 8,815 weapons and 228,004 rounds of ammunition during their operations.
Over the past year, the troops faced a wide range of security threats, including armed banditry, kidnapping, crude oil theft, and insurgency. These challenges have posed severe risks to citizens and disrupted national peace.
“During the course of the year, troops eliminated over a thousand notable terrorist leaders, commanders and combatants among others,” General Buba stated.
Among the notable terrorist leaders and commanders eliminated during the year were Dutse Mainasara Idda, Mallam Saleh Umaru, Mohammed Amadu, Chinemerem (aka Bam Bam), Jeremiah Uzuoma (aka Escoba), Tochukwu Awo (aka Ojoto), and Egwuatu.
“During the year, troops significantly degraded the military capabilities as well as the fighting capabilities of terrorists by neutralising 10,937 terrorists, arresting 12,538, and rescuing 7,063 hostages. Furthermore, troops recovered 8,815 weapons and 228,004 ammunitions and denied the oil theft of an estimated sum over N68billion,” he disclosed.
Troops made substantial recoveries, including:
Weapons: 4,332 AK-47 rifles, 1,244 locally crafted firearms, 838 dane guns, and 259 pump-action guns.
Ammunition: 128,496 rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, 45,445 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, and 29,176 assorted rounds.
Crude Oil and Refined Products: 56,223,002 litres of stolen crude oil, 9,735,836 litres of illegally refined diesel, and 156,527 litres of petrol.
The economic impact of these efforts was also highlighted, with the prevention of crude oil theft worth over ₦68 billion.
The armed forces expressed optimism that the gains made in 2024 mark the beginning of a decisive defeat of terrorism in 2025.
General Buba commended the morale and dedication of troops in the field, stating they remain committed to the mission and fully believe in the justice of their cause.
However, he emphasised that the fight against terrorism is a collective responsibility.
“On the whole, the war is not for the armed forces alone, but for all citizens. The military therefore urges for more citizens’ support in order to win the war,” he added.
