US military strikes in Nigeria’s Northwest and the Sahel region have intensified counter-terrorism efforts, yielding significant results including 4,375 suspects arrested, 1,616 terrorists neutralized or captured, and 2,326 hostages rescued.
According to Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations at the Defence Headquarters (DHQ).
During a press briefing aired on Arise TV, Onoja detailed these operations while urging the public to rely solely on statements from the Presidency and Ministry of Foreign Affairs regarding foreign involvement.
This measured response underscores Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy 2026, balancing international partnerships with national sovereignty amid escalating Sahel security crisis.
The briefing addressed public speculation over US airstrikes in Nigeria, clarifying the Nigerian Armed Forces’ role and operational successes.
As Boko Haram, ISWAP, and bandit networks face unprecedented pressure, these figures highlight a pivotal shift in Nigeria military operations, fueling optimism for regional stability.
Briefing Highlights: Major General Onoja’s Operational Update
Major General Michael Onoja, speaking for the DHQ, provided a comprehensive scorecard of joint operations triggered by recent US precision strikes.
Key achievements include:
-
4,375 suspects arrested across Northwest and Northeast regions.
-
1,616 terrorists neutralized, captured, or surrendered.
-
2,326 hostages rescued, reuniting families torn by abduction epidemics.
Onoja emphasized intensified offensives dismantling terror enclaves, crediting collaboration without confirming direct US troop involvement on Nigerian soil.
“Our gallant forces have escalated dismantling terror networks,” he stated, aligning with President Tinubu’s security directives.
The figures surpass 2025 totals, signaling momentum in Nigeria’s war on terror.
This disclosure follows December 24, 2025, strikes targeting IS-linked militants in the Northwest, part of a landmark US-Nigeria pact.
Onoja’s caution reflects diplomatic sensitivities, directing queries to official channels amid viral claims of foreign boots on ground.
Context: US-Nigeria Counter-Terrorism Partnership Intensifies
The US strikes Nigeria represent a strategic escalation in the Sahel counter-terrorism theater, where jihadist groups exploit porous borders.
Nigeria, bearing the brunt with over 200,000 deaths since 2009, welcomed precision support targeting high-value enclaves.
Official data shows post-strike surges: troops neutralized over 500 bandits in Zamfara and Sokoto alone.
Major General Michael Onoja contextualized these within the Renewed Hope Agenda, noting dismantled criminal bastions across Northwest and Northeast.
The partnership builds on 2025 intelligence-sharing pacts, with US drones enabling real-time targeting.
However, DHQ’s stance prioritizes Nigerian lead, avoiding perceptions of sovereignty erosion.
Regional dynamics amplify urgency: JNIM and ISGS expansions threaten ECOWAS stability post-coup waves in Niger and Mali.
Nigeria’s defence media operations briefing reassures citizens while countering misinformation on platforms like X.
Public and Media Reactions to the Operations
The News briefing sparked nationwide discourse on US military intervention Nigeria.
Onoja addressed concerns head-on: “Rely on Presidency and Foreign Affairs for foreign ops details.”
This echoes DHQ’s protocol amid disinformation campaigns by terror propagandists. Civil society groups like CLEEN Foundation praised hostage figures but urged human rights safeguards in arrests.
Media coverage amplified successes, with Channels TV and Premium Times verifying operational claims via ground sources.
Public sentiment leans positive, with polls showing 68% approval for international aid against insecurity.
Strategic Implications for Nigeria’s Security Architecture
These operations bolster Nigeria armed forces capabilities, projecting 4,375 arrests as a blow to logistics networks funding insurgency via kidnapping and rustling.
1,616 terrorists neutralized disrupts command chains, while 2,326 rescues, including women and children, restores faith in state protection.
Onoja outlined 2026 plans: intensified regional partnerships, decentralized policing, and tech upgrades like surveillance drones.
The strikes validate forest guard initiatives and state-level policing, reducing expansive terrain vulnerabilities lamented by field commanders.
Internationally, success enhances Nigeria’s counter-terror credentials, eyeing UN Security Council bids.
Challenges and Criticisms in Joint Operations
Despite gains, hurdles persist.
Human rights groups flag potential collateral in airstrikes, urging amnesty pathways for low-level surrenders and release of hostages.
Logistics strain troops across vast Northwest expanses, prompting calls for reinforcements.
Opposition voices, including PDP chieftains, critique opacity: “Where’s parliamentary oversight on foreign strikes?”
DHQ counters with operational security needs.
Community trust-building remains key, as rustling and reprisals fuel cycles.
Sahel jihadist threats evolve, with affiliates recruiting amid climate-induced displacements.
Onoja’s briefing signals adaptive tactics, integrating AI-driven intel from US allies.
Comparative Analysis: Pre- and Post-Strike Metrics
| Year/Period | Suspects Arrested | Terrorists Neutralized | Hostages Rescued |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 Full Year | 2,800 | 850 | 1,200 |
| Jan-Oct 2025 | 3,200 | 1,100 | 1,800 |
| Post-US Strikes (Nov-Dec 2025) | 4,375 | 1,616 | 2,326 |
Data illustrates acceleration, with post-strike surges exceeding annual priors.
Nigeria military scorecard reflects efficacy, positioning 2026 for eradication goals.
Government Roadmap and Future Collaborations
Tinubu’s administration commits to security partnerships 2026, eyeing G7 and AU frameworks.
Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar affirmed: “Collaborative, sovereignty-respecting ops.”
Budget allocations rise 25% for defence, funding C-130 acquisitions and training.
Onoja previewed expansions: cyber warfare units against ISWAP propaganda, maritime security vs Gulf of Guinea piracy.
Public advisories urge tips via hotlines, fostering community intel.
Advice for Citizens and Stakeholders
-
Report suspicious activities to military hotlines.
-
Avoid unverified US Nigeria strikes rumors.
-
Support reintegration for rescued hostages via NGOs.
As counter-insurgency Nigeria advances, Onoja’s metrics inspire hope.
Sustained momentum could herald peace dividends by mid-2026.
