The Defence Headquarters has announced that Nigerian troops have rescued 115 kidnapped victims and arrested more than 50 suspects in a series of coordinated operations across the country over the past week.
The rescues, which took place between 21 and 27 August 2025, were part of nationwide missions spanning twelve states and the Federal Capital Territory. The states include Borno, Yobe, Katsina, Kaduna, Sokoto, Zamfara, Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, Delta, and Rivers.
In a statement released on Friday, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj. Gen. Markus Kangye, provided a detailed breakdown. The largest single rescue operation occurred in Katsina State, where 76 victims were freed following air strikes on terrorist enclaves.
“Troops rescued five kidnapped victims in Bama, Gwoza, Mobbar, Chibok, Monguno and Konduga LGAs of Borno State as well as Gujba LGA of Yobe State,” Gen. Kangye stated. “In Katsina State, troops rescued 76 kidnapped victims following an aircraft bombardment of terrorist hideouts at Pauwa Hill in Kankara LGA.”
He further disclosed that three victims were freed in follow up operations across Sokoto and Zamfara states, while another 29 captives were released in Benue and Taraba under Operation Whirl Stroke. In the Niger Delta region, troops working under Operation Delta Safe rescued two individuals during operations in Delta and Rivers states.
Beyond the rescues, the military reported that scores of terrorists were neutralised during the engagements. The operations also led to significant recoveries, including arms, ammunition, vehicles, motorcycles, and illicit drugs. A sum of N70,050 was also recovered from the suspects.
In a related development, Gen. Kangye revealed that a key member of a notorious terrorist group had surrendered to troops in Borno State amid the intensified military offensive. “Following the intensity of our gallant troops’ firefights, a terrorist fighter belonging to the Abu Ayuba syndicate surrendered to troops in Kwayari village in Kaga LGA of Borno State on 20 August 2025,” he said. “The terrorist surrendered weapon and ammunition and was willing to cooperate in non-kinetic negotiation for other members of the syndicate to surrender.”
In a separate but concurrent effort, troops involved in oil theft prevention in the Niger Delta foiled a large-scale operation. The Defence Headquarters stated that the thwarted theft was estimated to be worth over N443 million.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the military’s commitment to sustaining the pressure on criminal elements across the nation to ensure the safety and security of all citizens. The recent operations signal a significant intensification of the armed forces’ campaign against kidnapping, terrorism, and insurgency.
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