The Presidency says recent military operations, including the rescue of 13 kidnapped passengers in Benue State, demonstrate that Nigeria is making significant progress in the fight against terrorism and other security threats.

Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said public attention often focuses on isolated incidents of insecurity while overlooking consistent gains recorded by the armed forces across different regions of the country.

He cited the rescue operation in Benue State, where troops of Operation Whirl Stroke recovered 13 passengers abducted from a Benue Links bus travelling from Makurdi to Otukpo. Three victims had earlier escaped on their own before the remaining passengers were freed after a coordinated search-and-rescue effort.

Onanuga also referenced multiple military operations carried out within one week across several states.

In Plateau State, troops arrested nine suspected ethnic militias allegedly linked to targeted killings in Riyom Local Government Area and recovered firearms and ammunition during the operation.

In Borno State, troops under Operation Hadin Kai reportedly neutralised two Boko Haram/ISWAP fighters, repelled an attack in Benisheikh, and safely detonated an improvised explosive device along the Gajiram axis.

In Yobe State, three suspected ISWAP logistics suppliers were arrested during a joint operation involving troops and local security collaborators.

In the North West, soldiers in Sokoto State repelled an armed attack in Sabon Birni Local Government Area, while in Kogi State, troops destroyed a suspected terrorist camp in Yagba West.

Security forces also uncovered and defused improvised explosive devices in Imo State and foiled a kidnapping attempt in Edo State, where suspects were arrested, and an AK-47 rifle was recovered.

The Presidency acknowledged that security challenges remain, but insisted that the military’s ongoing operations show clear progress. It urged the public to recognise and support the efforts of security agencies, saying sustained gains are often underreported compared to isolated incidents.