Troops of the Nigerian Army have recorded major operational successes against Boko Haram splinter groups and armed bandits in Niger and Kaduna States, disrupting insurgent networks and recovering weapons during coordinated security operations.
In Niger State, soldiers of the 1 Division, Nigerian Army, conducted a sustained clearance operation in Shiroro Local Government Area, dismantling settlements believed to serve as operational bases for factions linked to Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) and ANSARU.
According to military and security sources, the operations, which began on January 20, 2026 was designed to neutralise terror cells, clear improvised explosive devices (IEDs), and deny insurgents freedom of movement across the North Central corridor.
Despite encountering difficult terrain and mechanical setbacks involving Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and Armoured Fighting Vehicles, troops pressed forward, clearing communities including Galadima Kogo, Danpkala, Angwan Shawo, Kaure, Onagbi, Iburo, Kudogo, Kori, Kampani Kpakari, Chigwamya, Chikuba and Nabwi.
At Nabwi, troops reportedly neutralised a roadside IED and repelled insurgents, who opened fire, forcing them to retreat under superior military response. The mission was supported by Nigerian Air Force close air support, while unmanned aerial vehicles deployed by the Niger State Government enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance.
Security sources said Shiroro had emerged as a strategic hub for Boko Haram offshoots seeking to expand influence from the North East into the North West and North Central regions.
Senior commanders, including Saddiku, Umar Taraba, Kabiru Doctor and Mamman Kabir, were said to have operated along the Allawa–Madawaki axis, smuggling arms, planting explosives and imposing illegal levies on residents.
The latest offensive has reportedly disrupted insurgents’ logistics networks and blocked key routes linking Niger State to Zamfara, Kaduna and Kogi States, with military authorities stressing that sustained intelligence-led operations are critical to preventing regrouping.
Meanwhile, troops of 1 Division/Sector 1 Operation FANSAN YAMMA also foiled a bandit attack in the Maraban Rido area of Kaduna State, following a distress call on January 22, 2026 over livestock rustling in Anguwan Fulan village.
Soldiers engaged the fleeing bandits in a snap ambush, forcing them to abandon stolen livestock and retreat into surrounding forests.
Further exploitation of the area on January 23, 2026 led to the neutralisation of one suspected terrorist and the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, four magazines and 15 rounds of 7.62mm ammunition.
Abubakar Sadiq Wase, the General Officer Commanding 1 Division,is said to have commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, urged them to sustain operational momentum.
He also reassured the public of the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while calling for continued citizen cooperation through timely intelligence.
