The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF), has applauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the leadership of Nigeria’s armed forces and intelligence community for the successful operation that led to the arrest of two high-profile commanders of the Al-Qaeda-linked terrorist network, Ansaru.
Reports confirmed that a carefully coordinated, intelligence-driven operation resulted in the capture of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, popularly known as Abu Bara’a, the self-styled “Emir of Ansaru,” along with his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri, also called Mallam Mamuda, leader of the notorious “Mahmudawa” faction operating around Kainji National Park.
In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Sama Musa, the NYF described the breakthrough as a “decisive blow not just to Ansaru’s central command but also to other terrorist groups and their enablers in Nigeria.”
Musa said that the arrests were further evidence that Nigeria’s counter-terrorism operations under President Tinubu are “yielding results through the decimation of cruel terrorists.”
The youth body also commended the synergy of the Nigerian Armed Forces, Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and other partners whose professionalism and sacrifice made the operation possible.
It also acknowledged the recognition given by the United States Government, through its Embassy in Nigeria, for praising the country’s efforts in capturing Ansaru leaders, describing the international support as a boost to global cooperation against terrorism.
NYF recalled that the latest arrests add to a string of recent successes against terrorists and bandits since President Tinubu assumed office. Among those neutralised or captured are Halilu Sububu, Buhari Alhaji Halidu (Buharin Yadi), Dangote (a bandit kingpin), Boderi Isyaku, Kachalla Dan Chaki, Dogo Gudali, Dogo Rabe, Alhaji Auta, Kachalla Ruga, Rufai Maikaji, bandit leader Yellow, Ali Kachalla, Ali Kawaji, as well as the arrest of Muslim Muhammad Yusuf, son of late Boko Haram leader, Muhammad Yusuf.
Musa noted that just on Saturday, August 24, 2025, the Nigerian Air Force neutralised 35 terrorists in Borno State, while 75 kidnapped victims were rescued in Katsina State after major operations. These victories point to a sustained momentum that is steadily crippling terror networks across the country.
The NYF equally recognises the role of vigilant local communities whose cooperation remains crucial in denying terrorists safe havens.
Musa said: “We calls on security agencies to sustain and intensify efforts, swiftly exploiting recovered intelligence to dismantle remaining cells, sponsors, and facilitators. With sustained resolve, we are heading towards the end of the terror groups and bandits that have long disturbed our communities.
“The NYF appeals for consolidation of community stabilization and victim support programmes in affected areas as the Government prosecutes the captured commanders and other terrorists to ensure justice for victims while reinforcing deterrence.
“Thus, NYF calls on state governments across the security-challenged areas in the North to complement the federal Government’s effort through supporting community-based security efforts, intelligence sharing, youth empowerment, and counter-extremism initiatives that will undercut terrorist recruitment pipelines in our communities.
“We contend that this high-profile arrest and the elimination of several notorious kingpins are part of the reward accomplished due to strong political leadership, inter-agency coordination, and citizen participation anchored on the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Tinubu.”
The group reaffirms its readiness to partner with relevant authorities on civic awareness, counter-radicalization campaigns, and community-level reporting networks to enhance security in our communities.
“We believe that terrorists and terrorism have no place in our region, and with sustained resolve, we are certain that Ansaru and similar groups will be dismantled completely, and peace restored to our communities,” he added.