NIGERIAN MILITARY RECORDS 73.3% DROP IN ATTACKS NATIONWIDE IN OCTOBER
By Trek Africa Newspaper
The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has reported a 73.3 per cent reduction in attacks across Nigeria’s military operational theatres in October 2026, attributing the decline to sustained military operations across the country.
According to the military, 98 attacks were recorded during the month, compared with 367 incidents in September, representing 269 fewer attacks.
The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed the figures in Abuja on Friday, October 30, while briefing journalists on the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s operational activities.
A breakdown of the October figures showed that Operation Enduring Peace recorded the highest number of attacks, with 29 incidents.
Operation Hadin Kai followed with 27 attacks, while Operation Fansan Yamma recorded 24.
Other operational theatres recorded fewer incidents, with Operation Whirl Stroke reporting 12 attacks, Operation Udo Ka recording four, while Operations Delta Safe and Savannah Shield each recorded one.
Despite the significant decline in the overall figures, the military acknowledged that security challenges persist across different parts of the country.
The October report also highlighted operational achievements, including the neutralisation of more than 217 terrorists and criminal elements, the arrest of 333 suspects and the rescue of 349 kidnapped victims.
Additionally, 70 insurgents reportedly surrendered to troops during the month.
The Armed Forces also reported recovering 105 firearms and 3,174 rounds of ammunition during various operations.
In the fight against crude oil theft and illegal refining, troops recovered 756,837 litres of stolen petroleum products and destroyed 49 illegal refining sites.
The Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, called for stronger intelligence sharing and improved collaboration among security agencies.
He also urged community leaders and residents to strengthen cooperation with security formations by providing timely information that could assist security operations.
Oluyede further cautioned military personnel against complacency, particularly as the festive season approaches, stressing the importance of discipline, respect for human rights and adherence to established rules of engagement.
The Defence Headquarters’ latest figures indicate a substantial month-on-month decline in reported attacks. However, continued incidents across several operational theatres underscore the need for sustained security efforts and stronger community cooperation.
For Nigerians, the critical measure of progress will be whether the reported reduction translates into lasting security, safer communities and improved protection of lives and property.
