The Theatre Commander, Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), Maj-Gen. Christopher Musa has said that troops’ operational engagements forced terrorists to surrender in droves.

According to him, as of the last count, the number of surrendered insurgents stood at 61,929.

Musa disclosed this at the weekend during the Sallah luncheon for wounded troops at the Officers’ Mess, Maimalari Cantonment, Maiduguri, Borno State.

He said the surrendered terrorists comprise combatants and non-combatants along with their families, adding that the wounded soldiers were receiving treatment at various hospitals.

“We want to assure you that we will not relent in our efforts, despite the successes in the front lines, until this war is over for peace,” he said.

The commander, therefore, commended the wounded troops for their gallantry and sacrifices in the ongoing counter-terrorism operations and assured them that the Army made adequate provision for their treatment for speedy recuperation.

While thanking the families of fallen heroes, he said: “The Nigerian Armed Forces will continue to provide all the necessary support to the fallen heroes’ families.”

The Chief of Army Staff (C0AS), Lt-Gen. Faruk Yahaya said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) would continue to provide air support for the ground troops fighting terrorism in the Sambisa Forest and Lake Chad region.

Represented by AVM Charles Ohwo, the COAS appreciated the sacrifices of the wounded troops, assuring them that “the military is committed to the welfare of troops.”

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Isiaka Amao, urged the troops to sustain the tempo of professionalism to end the war that claimed life and property.

Amao, represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Maj-Gen. Andrew Omozoje, said he would commence operational visits to all military formations to boost the morale of troops.