Crushing the Bandits: Nigerian Army Rescues 1,000+ Hostages in Landmark 2025 Campaign

The Nigerian Army has concluded 2025 with a significant blow against criminal syndicates in the country's restive Northwest. Major General Ibikunle Ajose recently unveiled the year-end operational statistics, revealing that 1,023 hostages were successfully liberated from various bandit camps. This "clean-up" operation focused on dismantling the mobility and firepower of these groups, resulting in the seizure of over 300 motorcycles—the primary transport for rural raids—and nearly 200 AK-47 rifles.

Beyond the tactical wins, the recovery of over 4,100 heads of stolen cattle marks a vital economic victory for local pastoralists and farmers. The General emphasized that these operations were not just about combat, but about economic restoration. By neutralizing high-ranking "bandit kings" and securing rural corridors, the military has enabled thousands of displaced farmers to return to their lands just in time for the 2026 planting season, providing a much-needed boost to Nigeria's food security and regional stability.