The Nigerian Army has successfully rescued more than 1,000 kidnap victims over the past 18 months through sustained counter-banditry operations in the North-West region, according to the outgoing General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division.
Major General Ibikunle Ajose, who handed over command during a farewell ceremony at Giginya Cantonment in Sokoto, disclosed this achievement while highlighting the impact of Sector 2 operations under Operation Fasan Yamma (also known as Operation Fansan Yamma).
During his 18-month tenure, troops maintained relentless pressure on criminal enclaves and bandit networks, enabling thousands of displaced residents to return to their abandoned communities and farmlands particularly during the 2025 farming season.
This has significantly restored civilian confidence in the affected areas.In 2025 alone, the division recorded notable successes, including the rescue of over 1,000 victims (with specific reports indicating 1,023 kidnapped persons freed in the North-West throughout the year), the recovery of more than 200 weapons (including 189 AK-47 rifles in some accounts), and thousands of rounds of ammunition.
Major General Ajose attributed these gains to the dedication of troops and strategic leadership from the Chief of Army Staff.
He also outlined welfare improvements implemented during his command, such as renovating soldiers' living quarters, restoring water supply to the cantonment after nearly two decades, providing 24-hour power to medical facilities, introducing free maternal care and surgeries for wounded personnel, and partnering with Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital for enhanced healthcare.
The incoming GOC, Major General Bemgha Koughna, commended his predecessor, describing the 8 Division as a “shining example” in operational performance assessments.
These efforts form part of the broader military campaign to combat kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism in Nigeria's North-West zone, which has long been plagued by such security challenges.
The Nigerian Army continues to urge citizens to provide credible intelligence to support ongoing operations aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
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