A civic group has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for a string of recent operations across the country, citing the rescue of kidnapped victims, arrests of suspects and disruption of terrorist activities as evidence of growing operational effectiveness.
The Citizens Alliance for Security and National Cohesion (CASNC), in a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its national president, Dr Ibrahim Danjuma, said recent developments across multiple theatres show that troops are sustaining pressure on criminal networks.
The group highlighted the rescue of 13 passengers abducted along the Makurdi–Otukpo route in Benue State, noting that the victims were recovered from a forested area after a coordinated search-and-rescue operation.
“This intervention underscores the military’s improved capacity to track and recover victims within a short window, even in difficult terrain,” the statement said.
CASNC also referenced operations in Plateau State, where troops arrested suspected attackers linked to recent violence and recovered arms and ammunition, including a submachine gun, pistol and locally fabricated weapons.
“In one operation, suspects believed to be responsible for a series of killings were intercepted while in transit, with evidence suggesting recent involvement in violent acts. This reflects a shift towards proactive, intelligence-driven operations,” Danjuma said.
The group noted that troops also responded to multiple distress calls in the state, evacuated injured civilians and prevented further escalation in communities affected by recurring clashes.
“In several instances, security forces arrived promptly at attack scenes, stabilised the situation and ensured victims received urgent medical attention,” the statement added.
In the north-east, CASNC said troops successfully repelled attempted attacks by insurgents and neutralised fighters attempting to infiltrate communities along key corridors.
“Operations along the Kirawa–Pulka axis and Benisheikh area demonstrate the military’s continued dominance, as attackers were forced to retreat under sustained engagement,” Danjuma said.
The group also cited the discovery and safe detonation of an improvised explosive device along a major route in Borno state.
“The timely detection of the explosive device by an ordnance team prevented what could have resulted in significant casualties,” the statement noted.
CASNC further highlighted the arrest of suspected logistics suppliers linked to insurgent groups in Yobe State, describing it as a critical step in disrupting the supply chain of terrorist organisations.
“Disrupting logistics networks weakens the operational capacity of these groups and limits their ability to coordinate attacks,” Danjuma said.
In the North-West, the coalition referenced the repulsion of an attack in Sabon Birni LGA of Sokoto State, where troops engaged about 30 armed assailants and forced them to retreat.
“Such engagements show that forward deployments are yielding results, with troops able to respond swiftly and prevent further casualties,” the statement said.
The group also cited operations in Kogi State, where troops destroyed a suspected criminal camp and intercepted a logistics courier attempting to deliver supplies.
“In addition to dismantling camps, intercepting supply routes denies criminal elements the resources needed to sustain their activities,” Danjuma added.
In Edo State, CASNC noted that troops foiled a kidnap attempt, rescued victims and arrested suspects, while in the South-East, joint security teams detected and safely disposed of improvised explosive devices during patrol operations.
“These coordinated efforts across regions indicate a broad and sustained campaign to degrade criminal capabilities nationwide,” the statement said.
The group added that many of the successes recorded were supported by actionable intelligence from local communities, reinforcing the importance of civilian cooperation.
“The role of citizens in providing timely information cannot be overstated. It continues to enhance the effectiveness of security operations,” Danjuma said.
CASNC also said the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, should be commended for ensuring improved coordination among the armed forces and strengthening operational synergy across different theatres.
“The level of coordination being witnessed points to General Oluyede’s deliberate leadership efforts to integrate intelligence, logistics and rapid response mechanisms in ongoing operations,” the statement noted.
While acknowledging that security challenges persist, the coalition said recent outcomes demonstrate that progress is being made.
“Our troops are not only confronting threats but are also recording tangible successes that must be recognised. These efforts reflect commitment, professionalism and sacrifice,” Danjuma said.
The group called for sustained support for the military in terms of welfare, equipment and public confidence, adding that continued collaboration between citizens and security agencies remains essential.
“With consistent pressure on criminal elements and stronger community engagement, the country can build on these gains and achieve lasting security,” the group admonished.