In an update published by Vanguard, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has vowed to take decisive action against the remnants of terrorist groups and insurgents operating within the country. Speaking at the West African Social Activities (WASA) event in Abuja, the COAS stated that the Nigerian Army is entering a new phase of high-intensity operations designed to permanently secure troubled regions.
The Army Chief emphasized that troop welfare remains a top priority, as motivated soldiers are essential for the success of “Operation Desert Sanity V” and other ongoing missions. He noted that the military has seen significant gains in the North-East and North-West, with scores of terrorists recently neutralized and large caches of weapons recovered.
Despite these successes, the COAS urged the public to remain vigilant and provide timely information to security agencies. He reiterated that the military’s goal is to create a peaceful environment conducive to economic development and social stability.
The Punch confirmed these reports, adding that recent operations in the North-East led to the recovery of sophisticated anti-aircraft guns. Daily Post reported on the killing of several Boko Haram commanders, quoting a military spokesperson: “We are squeezing the operational space of the terrorists until they have nowhere left to hide.” Leadership also highlighted the COAS’s remarks, with a security analyst stating, “The focus on troop welfare is a critical shift that will likely improve battlefield performance in the coming months.”
Echotitbits take: The rhetoric from the COAS is strong, but the persistence of abductions in the Middle Belt remains a thorn in the side of the military. Watch for a possible shift toward more aerial-led operations Reuters – https://www.reuters.com/world/africa/nigerias-army-chief-vows-crush-insurgents-amid-us-pressure-over-religious-2025-11-07/, and February 15, 2026
Photo credit: Reuters
Tag: boko haram
-
Army Chief Pledges Final Blow to Insurgency Amid Renewed Offensive
-
United States Deploys 200 Military Personnel to Nigeria for Counter-Terrorism Training R
Reporting by The Punch indicates that the United States government has authorized the deployment of 200 military personnel to Nigeria to bolster the country’s fight against insurgency and banditry. This move, reportedly approved by the Trump administration following a request from President Bola Tinubu, focuses specifically on enhancing the “air and infantry operations” of the Nigerian Armed Forces. The troops are expected to arrive in the coming weeks to provide high-level technical guidance and intelligence-gathering strategies.
The deployment marks a significant escalation in international military cooperation between Abuja and Washington. While the American forces will not be engaged in direct combat on the front lines, their presence is intended to refine the tactical efficiency of Nigerian troops who have been battling Islamic extremists and kidnapping syndicates for over a decade. The collaboration follows recent high-profile security breaches that have drawn international concern toward the West African sub-region.
Validating this story, Daily Post features comments from U.S. Representative Riley Moore, who stated on Fox News that the situation in Nigeria had become a “bloodbath” requiring urgent intervention. Moore noted, “We are making steps in the right direction to address this persecution… we are sending 200 troops to train the Nigerian military.” Furthermore, Gazette Nigeria highlights the diplomatic context, quoting a U.S. Africa Command spokesperson who said, “We want to partner with capable and willing partners that are able to address these shared security concerns.”
Echotitbits take:
The arrival of U.S. special forces suggests a “re-globalization” of Nigeria’s security architecture. While the non-combat role is emphasized to manage public perception, the intelligence and tactical edge provided could be a game-changer for the Nigerian Air Force. The key will be ensuring that these foreign tactics are successfully adapted to the local terrain.
Source: Leadership – https://leadership.ng/us-deploys-200-troops-to-nigeria/, February 11, 2026
Photo credit: Leadership
-
President Tinubu Deploys Army Battalion to Kwara Following Deadly Terror Attack
Reporting by Premium Times indicates that President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate deployment of an army battalion to Woro village in the Kaiama Local Government Area of Kwara State. The directive follows a devastating overnight attack by Boko Haram terrorists, reportedly under the command of Mallam Sadiku, which resulted in scores of fatalities. The Presidency confirmed that the new military command will spearhead “Operation Savannah Shield” to secure the border communities and prevent further incursions from the nearby Kainji forest reserve.
The state government initially placed the death toll at 75, while the Red Cross reported as many as 162 confirmed deaths by Wednesday evening. Residents revealed that the terrorists invaded the community around 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, continuing their assault into the early hours of Wednesday. The victims were allegedly targeted for refusing to subscribe to extremist ideologies or be conscripted into the group’s ranks.
The Daily Trust and Channels TV have also provided extensive coverage of the massacre. Daily Trust quoted a local survivor who stated, “the attackers came in large numbers and showed no mercy to those who stood their ground.” Channels TV reported that “security forces have begun a massive manhunt in the Kainji forest reserve,” with a military source confirming that “no stone will be left unturned in neutralizing the Sadiku-led faction.”
Echotitbits take:
The relocation of Boko Haram elements to the North-Central axis (Kwara/Niger borders) represents a dangerous geographical shift in the insurgency. While the deployment of a full battalion is a necessary reactive measure, the long-term security of the Savannah belt will depend on intelligence-led operations within the Kainji National Park. This development may force a redirection of security spending in the 2026 supplementary budget.
Source: DailySabah – https://www.dailysabah.com/world/africa/nigeria-deploys-military-after-latest-massacre-kills-at-least-162, February 5, 2026
Photo credit: DailySabah
-
Federal Government Moves to Disrupt Terrorist Bomb-Making Networks
In a security update published by The Punch, the Nigerian government has launched a specialized operation to dismantle the supply chains used by terrorists to manufacture Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The initiative focuses on tracking and restricting the flow of explosive materials, chemicals, and electronic components frequently intercepted in conflict zones. This follows a recent Boko Haram attack in Borno State that claimed the lives of five soldiers and 15 civilians, underscoring the urgent need for a more proactive counter-IED strategy.
Security agencies have been directed to tighten surveillance at borders and monitor the sale of dual-use chemicals in the open market. The National Security Adviser’s office is coordinating with industrial chemical importers to ensure that materials meant for manufacturing and mining do not end up in the hands of insurgents. The government believes that by “choking” the supply of bomb-making materials, they can significantly reduce the lethality of terrorist operations.
The operation was also validated by Daily Post and Premium Times. Daily Post reported that “new checkpoints are being established specifically to inspect chemical shipments,” while Premium Times noted that “intelligence sharing with neighboring countries has been intensified to track cross-border smuggling.”
Echotitbits take:
Choking the supply chain is a smarter long-term strategy than just kinetic warfare. However, the challenge will be doing this without hurting legitimate businesses in the mining and construction sectors that rely on these chemicals. Watch for new licensing requirements for chemical distributors.
Source: The Punch – https://punchng.com/fg-to-disrupt-terrorists-bomb-making-supply-chains/, January 31, 2026
Photo credit: Adobe Stock
-
Nigerian Troops Neutralize Terror Commanders in Sambisa Forest Raid
Nigerian Troops Neutralize Terror Commanders in Sambisa Forest Raid
In an update published by Daily Post, the Nigerian military’s Operation Hadin Kai recorded a significant victory against Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents in the Sambisa Forest and Mandara Mountains. During Operation Desert Sanity V, ground troops reportedly repelled an ambush, resulting in the death of 10 terrorists. Two high-ranking commanders, identified as Basulhu and Ubaida, were among those neutralized.
The operation also led to the recovery of weapons, communication gadgets, and logistics supplies. Military sources said the encounter at Malkube was particularly intense, but that the troops suffered no casualties. The offensive is part of a renewed dry-season push to eliminate the remnants of terror cells attempting to regroup along the border with Cameroon.
Further reporting from The Punch confirmed the military’s success, quoting a spokesperson who said forces are maintaining a high tempo to ensure no safe haven remains for insurgent elements. Leadership newspaper also validated the report, adding that civilian intelligence played a key role in tracking the movements of the neutralized commanders.
Echotitbits take: Eliminating top-tier commanders is a major blow to insurgents’ command-and-control structures. Beyond battlefield wins, the next challenge is holding territory long enough for displaced residents to return safely. Expect increased border patrols to prevent fighters from slipping into neighboring countries.
Source: Zagozola — https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/troops-neutralise-two-terrorists-recover-arms-in-sambisa-forest (2026-01-23)
Photo Credit: Zagozola 2026-01-23
-
Video plea emerges as Boko Haram reportedly demands ₦423m ransom for abductees
Reporting by The Guardian Nigeria indicates a viral video shows two men—said to have been abducted by Boko Haram/ISWAP—pleading for help, with a reported ransom demand of $150,000 per person.
The report says the victims were taken while travelling in Borno and that the ransom demand totals about ₦423 million, reflecting the continuing kidnapping-for-cash economy around the insurgency corridor.
Security analysts note ransom payments can create perverse incentives and fund further violence, but families and communities often face impossible choices under time pressure.
Authorities are under renewed pressure to improve route security, intelligence penetration of insurgent networks, and safe rescue capability.
Echotitbits take: The big watch is operational response—intel-led rescues and disruption of ransom pipelines. Also watch for better travel advisories and secured corridors for high-risk routes.
Source: GlobalUpFront – https://globalupfront.com/2026/01/11/boko-haram-terrorists-demand-n423m-ransom-to-release-borno-ex-lga-vice-chairman/ 11 January 2026
GlobalUpFront 2026-01-11
Photo Credit: The Times of Israel
-
Troops arrest eight suspects tied to Gamboru market mosque suicide bombing network
According to ThisDay, troops of Operation Hadin Kai arrested eight suspected terrorists linked to the suicide bombing at the Gamboru market mosque, describing the suspects as part of the network behind the attack.
The report says two of those held are described as key facilitators, with the arrests following weeks of intelligence work and surveillance that led to targeted operations.
Recovered items listed include cash, phones, IDs, ATM cards, and jewelry, with forensic examination expected to support ongoing investigations.
The military says the suspects remain in custody for interrogation and intelligence extraction, with eventual handover for further investigation.
BusinessDay also reported the Army “dismantled [a] suicide bombing network” tied to the Gamboru incident. Leadership echoed the same development, reporting troops “arrest 8 terrorists linked to Gamboru market mosque suicide bombing.”
Echotitbits take: The key is prosecution quality. Track whether suspects are arraigned publicly and whether evidence handling and inter-agency coordination hold up in court.
Source: ThisDayLive – https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/07/troops-arrest-eight-terrorists-linked-to-gamboru-market-mosque-suicide-bombing/ January 7, 2026
ThisDayLive January 7, 2026Photo Credit: ThisDayLive
-
Troops Neutralize Eight Terrorists in Borno and Kogi Operations
According to The Punch, the Nigerian Army has successfully neutralized eight terrorists during coordinated raids in Borno and Kogi states. In Borno, troops ambushed a Boko Haram supply route, killing five insurgents, while a separate operation in Kogi led to the death of three kidnappers who had been terrorizing travelers along the Lokoja-Abuja highway. Three civilians were also rescued during these operations.
Major General Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, stated that the raids were based on actionable intelligence from local communities. He noted that a significant cache of weapons, including AK-47 rifles and improvised explosive devices (IEDs), was recovered from the scenes. The military has vowed to maintain the ‘offensive momentum’ as the dry season provides better mobility for ground troops.
Validation of these victories was reported by Channels TV and Daily Post. Channels TV noted that ‘air support played a crucial role in the Borno operation,’ while Daily Post quoted a resident: ‘We feel a bit safer seeing the soldiers actively patrolling the highway again.’
Echotitbits take: Neutralizing eight terrorists is a tactical win, but the geographical spread—from Borno to Kogi—shows that the insurgency and banditry remain decentralized. The rescue of three civilians is the real highlight here, as it boosts public confidence in military ‘intelligence-led’ operations.
Source: Zagazola – https://zagazola.org/index.php/breaking-news/troops-kill-8-boko-haram-terrorists-including-2-commanders-in-borno-clash January 5, 2026Photo Credit: Zagazola
-
Northern Communities Face Retaliatory Surge Following U.S. Strikes on Terrorist Cells
Reporting by BusinessDay indicates a sharp rise in attacks across northern Nigeria following recent United States-backed airstrikes targeting Islamic State-linked militants in Sokoto State. Between late December 2025 and the first days of 2026, at least 47 deaths and 35 abductions have been documented.
The violence has spread across Adamawa, Zamfara, and Kebbi states, with local leaders reporting nighttime raids on vulnerable villages. Despite the tactical success of the airstrikes, the immediate aftermath has seen bandit groups and Boko Haram remnants intensify their operations against civilian targets.
The Cable confirmed these developments, reporting that ‘attacks intensify across northern Nigeria after U.S. strikes’ as insurgents regroup. In response, the Defence Headquarters issued a warning to civilians, stating: ‘We do not expect civilians to pick up or keep such materials,’ referring to unexploded ordnance found at strike sites.
Echotitbits take: While international military support provides a technological edge, it often triggers ‘asymmetric’ retaliation. The Nigerian military must pivot from strike-based operations to ground-level community protection to prevent these ‘revenge’ cycles from displacing more thousands.
Source: Chosun — https://www.chosun.com/english/world-en/2025/12/27/PNB7UGLHP5AQVEOKNB6ZTUFITE/
Chosun January 3, 2026Photo Credit: Chosun
-
Yobe authorities say suspect linked to Maiduguri mosque blast has been arrested
2026-01-01 06:15:00
According to Vanguard, authorities in Yobe confirmed the arrest of a suspect allegedly linked to the December 24 Maiduguri mosque bombing.In an update published by the outlet, officials said the arrest followed local vigilance and security screening, with investigators expanding the net around possible support networks.
The development comes as the region continues to grapple with attacks targeting civilians and worship centres.
TheCable also reported the arrest and said the suspect was transferred for questioning as investigations continued.
BusinessDay similarly reported that the suspect allegedly confessed to being paid to carry out the attack, as authorities probed the wider network.
Echotitbits take:
Arrests are only step one. The credible test is independent corroboration—financing trails, logistics, handlers, and whether security agencies can prevent retaliatory or copycat strikes around high-traffic public spaces.
Source: Vanguard — January 1, 2026 (https://www.vanguardngr.com/2026/01/yobe-confirms-arrest-of-suspect-linked-to-maiduguri-bomb-blast/)
Vanguard 2026-01-01
Photo Credit: Vanguard