In a sweeping display of military prowess and strategic operations, the Nigerian Armed Forces have successfully neutralized 8,034 terrorists, arrested 11,623 suspects, and rescued 6,376 kidnapped victims across various theaters of operation nationwide in 2024. These achievements underscore the commitment of the military to restoring peace, stability, and security throughout the nation.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, announced these outcomes during the biweekly update in Abuja on Thursday. He outlined the scope of military successes, revealing the staggering recovery of stolen crude oil valued at N57,052,218,551.00. Additionally, the troops intercepted 53 million liters of crude oil, 9.1 million liters of illegally refined diesel (AGO), 156,000 liters of petrol (PMS), and 90,595 liters of kerosene (DPK), among other illicitly acquired resources.
Maj. Gen. Buba provided a detailed account of the arms and ammunition recovered during operations. These included 8,216 weapons, comprising 4,053 AK-47 rifles, 1,123 locally fabricated guns, 731 Dane guns, and 240 pump-action shotguns. Over 211,000 rounds of ammunition were also seized, including 120,247 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 41,515 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, and 25,664 assorted cartridges.
“These successes reflect the heightened aggression and unwavering determination of our troops in various operational theaters across the nation,” Buba stated. “We are committed to creating an environment where terrorists can no longer carry out their heinous acts or harm innocent citizens.” He assured Nigerians that the military’s efforts would remain focused and relentless.
On the broader implications of these operations, Buba emphasized the armed forces’ resolve to explore innovative strategies to improve operational effectiveness and protect citizens’ lives and properties. “The military is continuously adapting to ensure the safety of Nigerians while dismantling terrorist networks,” he added.
Strengthening Leadership and Strategy
Meanwhile, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, has called on operational commanders to enhance their strategic leadership skills to effectively address Nigeria’s complex security challenges. Speaking at the inauguration of the Leadership and Strategic Studies Course at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) in Abuja, Oluyede highlighted the course’s pivotal role in shaping officers’ leadership capabilities to meet modern demands.
Represented by the Chief of Training (Army), Maj. Gen. Sani Mohammed, Oluyede noted that the curriculum would cover critical areas such as Nigeria’s security framework, leadership and management, defense economics, policy and strategy, peace support operations, and logistics planning.
“This program reflects the visionary efforts of past and present Army leadership to provide our officers with the tools they need to confront emerging threats effectively,” Oluyede remarked. He encouraged participants to immerse themselves fully in the program, underscoring its importance in bridging knowledge gaps and fostering a unified approach to security.
Training for Unified Response
The Director General of NARC, retired Maj. Gen. Garba Wahab, further stressed the need for comprehensive training that transcends the divide between combatant and non-combatant officers. “Nigeria’s security challenges do not discriminate between specializations. It is imperative that all officers, regardless of their roles, receive training that prepares them for the evolving security landscape,” Wahab stated.
The Leadership and Strategic Studies Course is designed to prepare officers for the realities of contemporary security challenges, integrating lessons in military history, entrepreneurship, and psychological resilience alongside core strategic subjects.
Building Momentum for the Future
As 2024 comes to a close, the Nigerian Armed Forces’ successes highlight a trajectory of progress in combating terrorism, rescuing victims, and recovering stolen resources. The military’s focus remains on sustaining these gains, enhancing operational capabilities, and fostering collaboration among various branches to achieve a secure and stable Nigeria.
Maj. Gen. Buba concluded by reaffirming the military’s commitment to staying ahead of security threats. “We will not relent. Every operation brings us closer to securing lasting peace for the country and ensuring the safety of every Nigerian,” he declared.
With sustained leadership development, strategic operations, and adaptive tactics, the Nigerian Armed Forces are poised to continue making strides in the fight against insecurity, signaling hope for a safer and more prosperous nation.
