Paragraph 1: Overview of Military Successes
The Nigerian military reported significant achievements in July 2024 across various operational theaters, demonstrating a strong commitment to dismantling criminal networks and restoring peace throughout the nation. These achievements spanned counter-terrorism operations, anti-kidnapping efforts, and the disruption of oil theft activities, highlighting the multifaceted approach of the armed forces. Key successes included the neutralization of several high-profile terrorist commanders, the rescue of numerous kidnapped victims, and the prevention of substantial financial losses from oil theft. These operations, conducted under the strategic guidance of the Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, underscored the military’s dedication to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty while upholding rules of engagement and respecting human rights.
Paragraph 2: Counter-Terrorism Operations and Neutralization of Key Leaders
Intensified offensives in the North East and North West regions resulted in the elimination of five notorious terrorist leaders: Yellow Danbokolo, Amir Dunkei, Kachalla Nagomma, Gurmu, and Ali Yar Daribiyar. These targeted operations significantly disrupted terrorist activities and leadership structures, contributing to the overall weakening of these groups. Beyond these high-value targets, a total of 578 suspected terrorists, kidnappers, and other criminal elements were apprehended. These arrests further disrupted criminal networks and helped restore a sense of security in affected communities. Importantly, a key terrorist commander, Ibn Ali, along with 151 other terrorists and their families, surrendered to troops during clearance operations in the North East, indicating the effectiveness of military pressure and the potential for future disarmament and reintegration efforts.
Paragraph 3: Rescue of Kidnap Victims and Apprehension of Criminal Elements
The military’s focus on combating kidnapping resulted in the successful rescue of 134 kidnapped victims, who were subsequently reunited with their families. This accomplishment highlights the military’s commitment to humanitarian efforts and its dedication to protecting civilian populations from the scourge of kidnapping. In addition to the rescued victims, troops apprehended a number of high-profile criminal suspects involved in various illicit activities. These arrests included gunrunners, kidnappers, cultists, and extremist figures, further demonstrating the military’s commitment to addressing a wide spectrum of criminal threats and restoring order. The apprehension of these individuals contributes to dismantling criminal networks and creating safer communities.
Paragraph 4: Detailed Breakdown of Apprehended Suspects and Dismantled Criminal Networks
Among those apprehended were individuals playing significant roles in criminal networks: Yakubu Jubril, Abubakar Yahaya, Isiya Sani, Haruna Abdullahi, Ali Abba, Mallam Aminu Idris, Mohammed Hamisu (aka Mamiyo or Officer Mohammed), Shuaibu Bulama, Isah Abdullahi, and Abdullahi Mohammed. These arrests represent a significant blow to organized crime and contribute to the disruption of their operations. Further arrests included the suspected cult kingpin Prince Justin Ishimiri and an extremist cell leader, Liamdoo Douglas Adekpe (aka Bajor). The capture of these key figures weakens the leadership structures of these groups and diminishes their ability to carry out violent acts or recruit new members.
Paragraph 5: Combating Oil Theft and Protecting National Resources
Under Operation DELTA SAFE, troops effectively countered oil theft and sabotage activities in the Niger Delta region, preventing financial losses estimated at over N1.31 billion. This crucial operation not only protected valuable national resources but also contributed to economic stability by preventing revenue loss from illegal activities. The military’s efforts resulted in the recovery of significant quantities of stolen crude oil, illegally refined diesel, kerosene, and petrol. These recoveries represent a significant financial blow to the perpetrators of oil theft and contribute to stabilizing the energy sector. Furthermore, troops discovered and destroyed numerous illegal refining sites, equipment, and vehicles used in these illicit activities, further disrupting the operations of oil thieves.
Paragraph 6: Commitment to National Security and Operational Effectiveness
The Nigerian armed forces, under the leadership of Gen. Christopher Musa, remain steadfast in their commitment to defending the nation’s sovereignty and protecting its citizens. Their operations are guided by principles of professionalism, patriotism, and respect for human rights, ensuring that military actions are conducted ethically and responsibly. The military emphasizes intelligence-led operations, enabling them to effectively target criminal elements and maximize the impact of their efforts. The recent successes highlight a positive turning point in the fight against various security threats, and the armed forces are determined to maintain this momentum and further degrade the capabilities of those who threaten the nation’s peace and stability.
