Nigerian troops neutralized 8,034 terrorists and arrested 11,623 during various military operations across the country in 2024, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) said Thursday.
Crude oil worth ₦57.05 billion was recovered, and 6,376 kidnapped victims were rescued between January and December, according to Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations.
“Troops’ aggression across various theatres of operation this year culminated in 8,034 neutralized terrorists, 11,623 arrests, and the rescue of 6,376 hostages,” Buba said during a biweekly update on military operations in Abuja.
The operations led to the recovery of 53,101,430 liters of stolen crude oil and 9,179,181 liters of illegally refined automotive gas oil (AGO). Additionally, troops confiscated 90,595 liters of dual-purpose kerosene (DPK) and 156,095 liters of premium motor spirit (PMS), alongside other items.
A total of 8,216 weapons and 211,459 rounds of ammunition were seized. The recovered arms include 4,053 AK-47 rifles, 1,123 locally-made guns, 731 Dane guns, and 240 pump-action guns.
Buba said the military continues to intensify pressure on insurgents, creating conditions that make it increasingly difficult for terrorists to carry out attacks or threaten citizens.
“The armed forces are consistently reviewing strategies to enhance operational effectiveness and ensure public safety,” Buba added.
Despite progress, challenges persist. On Monday, three soldiers from Operation Hadin Kai were killed while repelling a Boko Haram attack in Kukawa Local Government Area, Borno State. A statement from DHQ on Tuesday confirmed the incident, with Chief of Army Staff Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede commending the troops for their bravery and urging them to maintain momentum.
