Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigerian Armed Forces have reported significant successes in their fight against terrorism in 2024, neutralising 10,937 terrorists and arresting 12,538. This was disclosed by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Edward Buba, during the Annual Review of Joint Task Force Operational Activities held in Abuja, the nation’s capital.
Key Achievements
Major General Buba highlighted that the military’s accomplishments were the result of sustained efforts to degrade terrorists’ operational and fighting capabilities.
Hostage Rescues: Troops rescued 7,063 hostages during various operations.
Arms and Ammunition Recovered:
Weapons: 8,815 weapons, including:
1. 4,332 AK-47 rifles
2. 1,244 locally fabricated guns
3. 838 Dane guns
4. 259 pump-action guns
Ammunition: 228,004 rounds, comprising:
– 128,496 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo
– 45,445 rounds of 7.62mm NATO
– 5,103 cartridges
– 29,176 assorted ammunition
Crude Oil and Refined Products Seized:
A. 56,223,002 litres of stolen crude oil
B. 9,735,836 litres of illegally refined Automotive Gas Oil (AGO)
C. 95,595 litres of Dual Purpose Kerosene (DPK)
D. 156,527 litres of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS)
Notable Eliminated Terrorists
Among the over 1,000 terrorist leaders, commanders, and combatants eliminated in 2024 were:
* Dutse Mainasara Idda
* Mallam Saleh Umaru
* Mohammed Amadu
* Chinemerem (aka Bam Bam)
* Jeremiah Uzuoma (aka Escoba)
* Tochukwu Awo (aka Ojoto)
* Egwuatu
Financial Impact
The military successfully disrupted oil theft operations, preventing losses estimated at over ₦68 billion (₦68,453,376,040.00).
Regional and National Collaboration
The Armed Forces emphasized the importance of collaboration with neighboring countries and regional bodies to combat terrorism effectively. According to Major General Buba, the successes of 2024 are indicative of a significant turning point, with expectations of further defeating terrorist elements in 2025.
Call for Citizen Support
The military reiterated that the fight against terrorism is not for the armed forces alone but a collective responsibility requiring active citizen participation.
Tribute to Fallen Heroes
A minute of silence was observed for officers and others who lost their lives in the line of duty, defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
Outlook for 2025
Troops remain committed and highly motivated, with plans to intensify operations and deliver tangible benefits to citizens. Major General Buba assured Nigerians that the Armed Forces would go the extra mile to achieve sustained peace and security in the coming year.
Peoplesmind
