 |
| Image of Major General Michael Onoja |
In a resolute
display of commitment to safeguarding lives and properties across the nation,
the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) have reported significant strides in
combating terrorism, kidnapping, and economic sabotage during the month of
February 2026. Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations,
highlighted these achievements in a press briefing today, 27 February 2026, underscoring the
military's dedication to transparency and public accountability.
"This
engagement serves as a testament to our unwavering dedication to transparency,
public accountability, and the dissemination of accurate information regarding
our efforts to enhance Nigeria's security situation and preserve our
territorial integrity," stated Major General Onoja. He emphasized that in
an era of dynamic security challenges, AFN troops have demonstrated
extraordinary resilience and unwavering effort, yielding successes across
diverse operational theatres.
The Defence
Headquarters' mandate to secure life and properties remains at the forefront of
these operations, with the AFN employing a comprehensive strategy that extends
beyond combat. By protecting critical infrastructure and fostering community
resilience, the military is not only neutralizing immediate threats but also
laying the groundwork for long-term stability. This approach ensures that
Nigerians can pursue economic activities without fear, contributing to national
development and prosperity.
Throughout February,
the AFN intensified its multi-domain operations, leveraging advanced
intelligence, inter-agency collaboration, and community partnerships to
dismantle threats posed by terrorists, kidnappers, and economic saboteurs.
"By integrating kinetic strikes with non-kinetic initiatives such as
humanitarian aid, infrastructure support, and dialogue with local leaders, we
are building resilient communities capable of withstanding adversarial
influences," Major General Onoja explained. These efforts align directly with the broader
goal of creating safe environments where citizens can live, work, and thrive,
thereby reducing the humanitarian and economic toll of insecurity.
Major General
Onoja assured the public that every action adheres strictly to international
humanitarian standards, rules of engagement, and a profound respect for human
rights, in line with global best practices. "AFN personnel's discipline
remains paramount and we continue to invest in training and oversight to
uphold these principles," he added. This commitment is crucial in
maintaining public trust and ensuring that operations do not inadvertently harm
the very communities they aim to protect, further reinforcing the Defence
Headquarters' role in upholding Nigeria's sovereignty and citizen welfare.
The successes
achieved would not have been possible without the active participation of the
Nigerian populace. "AFN personnel have consistently demonstrated
exceptional professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rules of
engagement and international humanitarian standards, even in the face of
evolving and complex threats," Major General Onoja noted. "We remain deeply
grateful for the continued support and timely cooperation of ordinary Nigerians
whose credible intelligence and vigilance have proven indispensable to these
operational successes."
Looking ahead,
the AFN vows to sustain this momentum and consolidate hard-won gains. "The
Armed Forces of Nigeria will sustain this momentum, consolidate hard-won gains,
and remain resolute in creating a secure environment that enables citizens to
live, work, and thrive in peace," Major General Onoja concluded. As insecurity continues
to pose challenges, these ongoing efforts by the Defence Headquarters are
pivotal in fostering a safer Nigeria, where the protection of lives and
properties translates into tangible progress for all.