Military Says 1,000 Abductees Saved as Security Operations Intensify

Major General Ibikunle Ajose, outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC)
of the Army’s 8 Division and his successor

16 January 2026 - The Nigerian Army has disclosed that more than 1,000 individuals abducted by criminal groups have been rescued during the past 18 months, marking a significant operational achievement for troops deployed in the country’s troubled North-West region.

Major General Ibikunle Ajose, outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Army’s 8 Division, highlighted the success at his farewell ceremony in Sokoto on Friday. The military said the feat was part of efforts under Sector 2 of Operation Fasan Yamma, aimed at pressuring armed groups and dismantling bandit networks that have terrorised communities.

“In 2025 alone, we recovered more than 200 weapons, seized thousands of rounds of ammunition, and rescued upwards of 1,000 victims,” Major General Ajose told guests at the event. He added that sustained pressure on criminal enclaves had helped displaced residents return to their homes and farmlands during the recent farming season, a move welcomed by many local farmers.

The general described the operations as pivotal to restoring confidence among civilians in the region. He also outlined improvements in troops’ welfare during his command, including the renovation of living quarters, construction of new facilities, and the long-overdue restoration of waterworks at Giginya Cantonment — a project completed for the first time in nearly two decades.

Enhancements to medical services were also noted, with the introduction of 24-hour power supply to health facilities, free maternal care for soldiers’ families, enhanced ambulance services, and free surgical care for injured troops. Civilian medical professionals from Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital were credited with raising healthcare standards within the barracks.

The departing commander said that schools, employment opportunities, places of worship and security infrastructure within the division’s area of responsibility had also been strengthened under his tenure.

Major General Bemgha Paul Koughna, the incoming GOC, commended his predecessor’s leadership and described the 8 Division as a “shining example” in recent operational assessments. The Army reported that Major General Ajose has been redeployed to Abuja for his next assignment, urging troops to offer continued support to the new command.