Nigeria's Military Targets Terrorists in Forests, Ungoverned Areas

On February 16, 2026, General Olufemi Oluyod, the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), declared that Nigerian forests and ungoverned spaces will no longer be safe havens for terrorists. He made this announcement during the launch of Operation Savannah Shield, aimed at stabilizing vulnerable corridors within the theatre of operations.

The military is investigating the source of N37 million in cash intercepted by troops from the Joint Task Force during operations in the northeast. Oluyod stressed that the operation is not routine but a coordinated offensive designed to deny criminal elements freedom of action.

Major General Samaila Uba, the Director of Defence Information, noted that the operation aims to protect lives and property, particularly in the agricultural belt. Governor Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State acknowledged the need for robust federal intervention due to recent escalations in terrorist activities.

The military remains committed to eliminating terrorist threats and restoring public trust.