The Arewa Joint Action Movement (AJAM), on Thursday, commended the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what it described as “significant and commendable strides” in restoring peace and security to Northern Nigeria, once plagued by insurgency and rampant criminality.

In particular, the group lauded the Ministry of Defence under the leadership of Minister Mohammed Badaru Abubakar for spearheading high-impact, technology-driven security operations across the North West and North Central zones.

In a statement, the convener of AJAM, Lauretta Bako, the group acknowledged the dramatic improvement in the region’s security landscape, crediting the administration’s strategic military operations, technology-driven security reforms, and coordinated national efforts for the progress made.

He said: “Today, we stand in a vastly improved security landscape, where Boko Haram has been pushed into enclaves, and the leaders of kidnappers and bandits have been neutralized, with many forced into hiding.

“The ongoing efforts by the Defence Ministry under Minister Badaru Abubakar to enhance Nigeria’s operational posture in the North West and North Central Zones through the deployment of high-tech combat enablers and strategic military operations have yielded significant dividends.

“The successes recorded in neutralizing bandits, terrorists, and criminal networks, coupled with the revitalization of local economies, illustrate the effectiveness of this approach.

“The introduction of high-tech combat enablers has been pivotal in enhancing the operational effectiveness of Nigeria’s security forces. The deployment of these advanced technologies has allowed for more precise intelligence gathering, improved surveillance, and more effective engagement with criminal elements.”

One of the major highlights of the government’s security success, according to AJAM, is Operation FANSAR YAMMA, which has recorded significant milestones, including the elimination of notorious bandit leader Kachalla Dogo Isah and 44 terrorists during coordinated air and ground operations in Zamfara State.

He added, “The killing of high-profile criminals, including gun runners and bandit leaders, has not only dismantled key networks of violence but has also sent a strong message to remaining criminal elements that the state is resolute in its fight against insecurity.

“Moreover, the expansion of Operation WHIRL STROKE to include parts of Taraba State has further solidified the security framework in the region. This operation has become instrumental in addressing the complex web of criminal activities that have plagued the North Central Zone.

“The synergy between various security agencies, inspired by the Hope Agenda, has enhanced operational coordination, leading to the successful arrest of numerous criminals and the rescue of hostages.”

The group cited impressive first-quarter statistics from 2025 to underscore the success of these operations: 122 extremists neutralized and over 1,000 criminals arrested, reflecting a renewed sense of urgency and commitment within Nigeria’s security architecture.

AJAM stressed the real-world impact of these interventions.

“Highways once notorious for kidnappings, such as the Kaduna-Abuja route, are now safer, while local markets in Giwa, Birnin Gwari, and Jibia are witnessing renewed activity,” it said.