
By Miriam Humbe
In yet another victory achieved, the Nigerian military ensured the safe return of the 119 travellers abducted at Buratai through a swift operation, in a series of successful operations conducted from 6 and 12 November 2026.
Major General Michael Onoja, the Director, Defence Media Operations disclosed this in a weekly press briefing on ongoing military operations by the Armed Forces of Nigeria, for the period of November 6-12, 2026.
The operations into the Kainji Lake National Park to dismantle terrorist enclaves and clear IEDs, the destruction of terrorist camps at Dajin Madam, and the steady stream of fighters and their families abandoning terrorist enclaves in the North East all point to an adversary that is losing ground, manpower and morale.
These Operations conveyed a clear message that wherever terrorists and criminals attempt to seize ground, hold captives or sow fear, troops will find, confront and neutralize them.
Troops of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) maintained the momentum of operations across the various geopolitical zones of the country from 6 – 12 November 2026.
This was characterized by combined rescue and clearance operations to seize the initiative from terrorists, bandits and kidnappers as well as other criminal groups that seek to disrupt our nation’s peace and security.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, on behalf of the AFN, commended the resilience of the troops, wished personnel wounded during the operations a speedy and full recovery, and extended his condolences to the family of the commuter who lost his life in Bukkuyum LGA of Zamfara State.
The CDS also commended the security agencies, local security groups and other partners for their collaboration and particularly appreciated the Emir of Bogwas for setting a worthy example of how traditional institutions can support peace.
He appreciated the media for its responsible and balanced reportage and urged it to continue avoiding the glorification of violence or the jeopardising of military operations.
To communities and other stakeholders, the CDS stressed that every timely piece of information, every reported sighting and every refusal to supply or shelter criminals can save lives.
He also cautioned troops against complacency and urged them to remain professional and humane in all their engagements.

