Civic group commends military operations, cites rescues, arrests

Nigerian troops

A civic organisation, the Citizens Alliance for Security and National Cohesion (CASNC), has commended the Nigerian Armed Forces for a series of recent operations across the country, citing rescues, arrests and the disruption of terrorist activities as evidence of improved coordination.

In a statement issued on Thursday and signed by its national president, Dr Ibrahim Danjuma, the group said developments across multiple theatres suggest that security forces are sustaining pressure on criminal networks.

Among the incidents highlighted was the rescue of 13 passengers abducted along the Makurdi–Otukpo corridor in Benue State. According to the group, the victims were recovered from a forest location following a coordinated search-and-rescue effort.

CASNC also pointed to operations in Plateau State, where troops reportedly arrested suspects linked to recent violence and recovered arms, including a submachine gun and other locally fabricated weapons. The group described the development as indicative of a shift towards intelligence-led interventions.

In the North-East, the coalition said troops repelled attempted attacks along key routes in Borno State and adjoining areas, forcing insurgents to retreat. It also cited the detection and safe disposal of an improvised explosive device along a major route, noting that the action likely prevented casualties.

Further operations referenced include the arrest of suspected logistics suppliers in Yobe State, which the group said could weaken insurgent supply chains, and the repulsion of an attack in Sabon Birni Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

In the North-Central region, CASNC highlighted activities in Kogi State, where troops reportedly dismantled a suspected criminal camp and intercepted a logistics courier. Similar interventions were noted in Edo State, where a kidnap attempt was foiled and suspects arrested.

The group added that joint security teams in parts of the South-East had also detected and safely disposed of explosive devices during patrols, describing the operations as part of a broader nationwide effort.

CASNC said many of the outcomes were supported by intelligence provided by local communities, underscoring the importance of civilian cooperation in security efforts.

The coalition also commended the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede, for what it described as improved coordination across the armed forces.

“The level of operational synergy being witnessed points to deliberate efforts to integrate intelligence, logistics and rapid response mechanisms,” the statement said.

While acknowledging that security challenges persist across parts of the country, the group said recent operations demonstrate measurable progress.

It called for sustained support for security agencies, including improved welfare and equipment, and urged continued collaboration between citizens and authorities.

Join Our Channels