DHQ gives update on operations against Boko Haram, ISWAP, others
Nigerian Military Provides Update on Operations
Abuja, Nigeria — The Defence Headquarters offered a detailed report on military operations nationwide during a press briefing held Tuesday. Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, addressed journalists about activities conducted between June 4 and June 11, 2026, aimed at combatting criminal activities across all major operational zones.
Onoja underscored the effectiveness of these operations, which reflect the skill, professionalism, and commitment of Nigerian troops under the guidance of the Chief of Defence Staff.
In the North East, the military intensified efforts against remnants of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), engaging in aggressive patrols and logistical disruption operations. During this week, troops executed tactical maneuvers across Adamawa, Borno, and Yobe states. Notably, on June 5, they conducted clearance operations in Gwoza, leading to the successful recovery of Ali Musa, an 8-year-old boy who escaped from a terrorist enclave.
Onoja noted that subsequent operations led to the rescue of three additional civilians on June 6. Another three individuals were found wandering near Amuda on June 11, having escaped from terrorist hideouts in the Mandara Mountains.
All rescued individuals received medical care and were safely reunited with their communities after being processed at military facilities.
A significant achievement occurred on June 6, when troops executed a multi-faceted raid in the Mandara Mountains, resulting in the rescue of 360 civilians—predominantly women and children—who had been abducted during an attack on Ngoshe community on March 3. Unfortunately, two infants did not survive the harsh conditions while in captivity. The remaining survivors were evacuated to a local hospital for treatment before being officially handed over to authorities.
Additionally, on June 5, a 20-year-old male terrorist surrendered to troops in Monguno, bringing items including cash and personal belongings.
In Yobe State, a suspected terrorist informant was detained on June 5, followed by another arrest during market surveillance in Adamawa the next day. Further operations in Borno State led to the apprehension of multiple individuals involved in logistics for terrorists, with suspects found in possession of various contraband items, including food supplies financed by extremist groups.
On June 11, military action in Kukawa resulted in the interception of 11 suspected collaborators. Earlier operations on June 7 yielded seven motorcycles and over 1,000 rounds of ammunition, while troops successfully defended their position from an attack in Mallam Fatori, capturing an AK-47 rifle.
In the North West, Operation Fansan Yamma reported significant progress against criminal groups in Kaduna, Katsina, and Zamfara, including the arrest of an alleged arms dealer, Mallam Mustapha Abubakar.
The Joint Task Force in the North Central, under Operation Savannah Shield, targeted terrorist surveillance networks, resulting in the arrest of a high-profile informant currently under interrogation.
Other successful operations included those under Operation Enduring Peace in the North Central, Operation Delta Safe in the South South, and Operation Udo Ka in the South East. In the South East, troops reported strategic successes against the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its military wing, the Eastern Security Network.
General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, Chief of Defence Staff, commended the troops for their bravery, discipline, and commitment across all theaters of operation.
