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 aimed at degrading criminal activities across key corridors in the North Central and North West regions.
In Niger State, soldiers of the 1 Division, Nigerian Army, carried out 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 and ANSARU. The operation forms part of ongoing military efforts to prevent the spread of insurgency from the North East into other parts of the country, particularly along rural and forested routes that have increasingly been exploited by armed groups.
Military and security sources said the operation, which began on January 20, 2026, was designed to neutralise terror cells, clear improvised explosive devices, and deny insurgents freedom of movement across the North Central corridor. Despite difficult terrain and mechanical challenges involving Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicles and Armoured Fighting Vehicles, troops continued the advance, 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 improvised explosive device and repelled insurgents who opened fire, forcing them to retreat under superior military response. The mission was supported by close air support from the Nigerian Air Force, while unmanned aerial vehicles deployed by the Niger State Government enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance throughout the operation.
Security sources said Shiroro had emerged as a strategic hub for Boko Haram offshoots seeking to expand their 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 local residents.
The latest offensive was said to have 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 remain critical to preventing regrouping and renewed attacks.
Meanwhile, troops of 1 Division and Sector 1 of 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 the 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.
The General Officer Commanding 1 Division, Abubakar Sadiq Wase, was said to have commended the troops for their bravery and professionalism, urging them to sustain operational momentum. He also reassured the public of the military’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, while calling for continued cooperation from citizens through the provision of timely and credible intelligence.
