By DAYO ADESULU
Nigerian troops repel terrorists’ ambush
The Defence Headquarters has confirmed that Nigerian troops repelled a terrorists’ ambush in Gwoza Local Government Area (LGA) of Borno State, in a fierce gun battle that resulted in the death of several insurgents and the recovery of sophisticated weapons.
Between April 3 and 10, 2025, Nigerian troops operating across different theatres of conflict sustained offensive operations against terrorists and criminal elements across the North East, North West, North Central, South East, and the Niger Delta regions. This sustained pressure led to the neutralization of scores of terrorists, arrests of collaborators, recovery of arms, and rescue of kidnapped victims.
Ambush in Gwoza: Nigerian Troops Repel Attack
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Markus Kangye, revealed that the Nigerian troops engaged terrorists who laid an ambush in Gwoza. The swift and professional response of the troops led to the killing of many terrorists and recovery of weapons, demonstrating the military’s readiness and resilience.
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“The ambush was swiftly repelled. Our troops neutralized several terrorists and recovered significant weapons from the scene,” Kangye stated.
North East Operations: Terrorists Neutralized, Weapons Recovered
Joint offensive patrols by troops and Hybrid Forces in Buturam village, Gujba LGA (Yobe) and Mai Dunamari, Kaga LGA (Borno), also led to the neutralization of insurgents and seizure of a cache of arms. Nigerian troops recovered:
- Multiple AK-47 rifles
- Locally fabricated rifles
- RPG tubes and automatic weapons
- IEDs
- Ammunition in various calibers
Additionally, ISWAP and JAS fighters—comprising men, women, and children—continued to surrender to troops in response to the sustained pressure.
North West: Fighting Terrorism Across States
In Sokoto, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara States, Operation Fasan Yamma recorded significant victories. Nigerian troops repelled terrorists, recovered rustled livestock and weapons, and arrested logistics collaborators. Notable areas include:
- Isa, Sabon Birni, and Binji (Sokoto)
- Kankara and Malumfashi (Katsina)
- Tsafe and Maradun (Zamfara)
- Tangaza (Sokoto) and Arewa (Kebbi)
Nine terrorist logistics suppliers were arrested, and ₦235,330.00 was recovered from them.
Airstrikes in Katsina Disrupt Terrorist Strongholds
Air components of Operation Fasan Yamma launched air interdiction missions targeting Zango Hill in Kankara LGA, Katsina, a known hideout of a terrorist kingpin. The airstrikes neutralized many insurgents and destroyed their infrastructure.
Central Nigeria: Criminal Hideouts Dismantled
The Nigerian troops under Operation Whirl Punch and Safe Haven conducted successful missions across Edo, Kwara, Niger, Plateau, and Taraba States. Highlights include:
- Arrest of 4 criminals in Bauchi and Kaduna
- Rescue of kidnapped victims
- Recovery of arms, motorcycles, and mobile phones
- ₦89,800.00 recovered from criminals
South-South: Illegal Oil Bunkering Thwarted
In the Niger Delta, Nigerian troops of Operation Delta Safe prevented oil theft valued at over ₦869 million. Seizures included:
- 325,990 litres of stolen crude oil
- 24,645 litres of refined AGO
- 19,500 litres of PMS
- 1,600 litres of engine oil
The Nigerian troops destroyed 86 illegal refining ovens, 181 pits, and 316 drums, and arrested 49 perpetrators.
South East: Terrorist Leader Eliminated
Operation Udoka made significant breakthroughs in Imo, Abia, Enugu, and Rivers States. Key achievements include:
- Elimination of notorious terrorist commander Nkwachi Eze (aka Onowu)
- Rescue of 3 kidnapped victims
- Recovery of weapons, IEDs, and Biafra-inscribed uniforms
Military Reaffirms Commitment to Security
Major Gen Kangye reiterated the unwavering commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, unity, and the lives of all law-abiding citizens.
“Troops remain focused, intelligence-driven, and professional in operations. We salute their sacrifices and encourage continued public support,” he added.
Conclusion: Troops’ Resilience Thwarts Terrorist Activities Nationwide
With increased intelligence-sharing, collaborative operations, and strategic offensives, Nigerian troops continue to repel terrorists’ ambushes and dismantle insurgent infrastructure across the country. These operations send a strong message to criminal elements that their activities will not go unpunished.
