Troops of Operation ENDURING PEACE in Plateau
State have delivered decisive blows against terrorist elements through swift,
intelligence-driven responses to multiple distress calls, according to a
statement released today, 20 February, 2026 by the Director of Defence Media
Operations, Major General Michael Onoja.
The operation, which coordinates seamless
efforts among the Armed Forces and supporting security agencies, conducted
aggressive offensive patrols and raids across Riyom, Jos North, Bassa, Jos
South, Barkin Ladi, and Mangu Local Government Areas of Plateau State, as well
as Kaura LGA in neighbouring Kaduna State. These areas have long suffered from
recurrent attacks on farming communities and travelers.
The proactive measures triggered intense
firefights that neutralized several terrorists, led to the arrest of three
suspects, and enabled the successful rescue of six kidnapped victims who were
promptly reunited with their families. Assorted arms and ammunition recovered
from the engagements are now in military custody for forensic analysis and
evidentiary use, significantly weakening the operational capacity of terrorist
groups in the theatre.
In a standout display of inter-agency
collaboration, troops in Kaura LGA supported by the Civilian Joint Task Force,
local hunters, and the Forest Security Service (popularly known as Rangers) responded
rapidly to credible intelligence about the abduction of five civilians in Yardi
village, Kaduna State. The combined team engaged the kidnappers in a fierce gun
battle, forcing the terrorists to abandon their victims and flee into nearby
forests with gunshot injuries. All five hostages were rescued unharmed and handed
over to their families amid widespread community gratitude. Aggressive pursuit
operations are ongoing to track and apprehend the fleeing criminals according to
the statement.
These latest successes bring the total number
of rescued victims in the reported operations to eleven, underscoring the
effectiveness of coordinated security efforts in disrupting terrorist
activities across the North-Central region.
The achievements of Operation ENDURING PEACE
highlight the Nigerian Armed Forces’ exceptional professionalism, rapid
response capabilities, and deepening synergy with local stakeholders and
vigilante groups. This community-centred approach has not only saved lives but
also restored hope in violence affected areas, encouraging greater public
cooperation and intelligence sharing.
As terrorist threats continue to evolve, the
relentless commitment of Nigeria’s troops backed by robust civil-military
partnerships remains crucial to achieving lasting peace and security. These
operations contribute significantly to national stability and serve as a model
for counter-terrorism efforts in complex terrains across the West African
sub-region. Major General Onoja encourage the international community to recognize
the sacrifices and strategic gains made by the Armed Forces of Nigeria in
safeguarding lives and promoting regional peace.