•9, 821 hostages freed, 24,000 surrender
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has declared that Nigeria is turning the tide against insecurity, citing major improvements in safety and community restoration across the country.
This is even as he disclosed that security forces have made significant progress in their on-going counter-terrorism operations, arresting 13,543 terrorists and bandits, while 17,500 suspects are in detention.
He also reported the successful rescue of 9,821 hostages, whose lives were at risk during the operations and approximately 24,000 terrorists have reportedly surrendered and laid down their arms.
“These aren’t just numbers. These are lives saved, villages reclaimed, and communities restored,” he stressed.
He made the disclosure in an interview for an upcoming State House documentary marking President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office, according to a statement issued by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Badaru highlighted significant military achievements and tangible progress. “For the first time in years, Nigerians can travel the Birnin Gwari to Kaduna road even at midnight. That’s progress. Zaria to Funtua to Gusau is now peaceful, and Abuja-Kaduna road has been largely secured,” Badaru said.
He reiterated that President Tinubu had given a clear order to the military: “End insecurity decisively and do it fast before the end of 2025.” According to Badaru, this directive has energised robust operations, such as Operation Fasan Yama and other on-going military campaigns nationwide. Badaru noted a remarkable return to normalcy in many parts of the Northeast and Northwest. “Markets are back. Farms are productive again. We’ve seen Fulani, Hausa, and other communities rebuilding trust. The progress is real and visible,” he said.
He also announced a major boost to troops’ welfare, with President Tinubu approving N18 billion to clear insurance arrears and improve conditions for military personnel. “We’ve doubled troop ration allowances from N1,500 to N3,000. Life insurance now covers all soldiers, and I’ve personally visited front line bases to hear their concerns and boost morale,” Badaru added.