In a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, security forces have confirmed the elimination of at least 45 extremist fighters during a high-intensity operation in Niger State.
The joint offensive, carried out by Nigerian Army troops, hybrid local forces, and backed by real-time intelligence from the Department of State Services (DSS), took place Friday evening in Iburu village, located in the Shiroro Local Government Area.
According to security sources, the raid was launched following credible intelligence that dozens of armed militants on motorcycles were en route to launch coordinated attacks on rural communities. Thanks to a swift DSS alert, troops responded rapidly, engaging the terrorists in a fierce firefight.
Local witnesses reported seeing at least 40 dead bodies believed to be the insurgents, with several motorcycles destroyed. A military official later confirmed the full death toll at 45.
Unfortunately, the operation was not without sacrifice. Two members of the hybrid local force were killed in the clash, and four others were seriously wounded. They are currently receiving treatment in Minna, the state capital.
Security experts say the success of the raid underscores the growing effectiveness of intelligence-led missions in Nigeria’s anti-terror campaign. The DSS has been widely praised for its strategic operations, and this latest engagement is being credited with averting a potentially devastating attack on civilians.
The operation also comes in the wake of continued concerns over terrorist activity along border zones. Just months ago, Nigeria’s Customs Comptroller General, Bashir Adeniyi, raised alarms about cross-border threats near Babanna, where customs officers narrowly escaped a terrorist ambush after intercepting fuel intended for insurgent networks.
Back in Iburu, residents are slowly returning to normal life, expressing gratitude for the rapid response of the armed forces. Analysts say this mission demonstrates how cooperation between security agencies and local defense teams can provide a powerful model for future counterterrorism efforts.
Meanwhile, in Borno State, DSS operatives — again supported by Nigerian Army troops recently rescued Reverend Father Alphonsus Afina, who had been abducted by Boko Haram militants on June 1. Father Afina, who previously served as a priest in Alaska from 2017 to 2024, was kidnapped alongside other civilians on the Liman Kara-Gwoza road. In total, 11 hostages, including 10 women were safely recovered. Authorities confirmed no ransom was paid.
And in Zamfara State, DSS and Army units carried out another successful rescue, freeing 32 kidnapping victims — among them, 27 women and five boys who had been held in captivity for up to four months in Shinkafi Local Government Area.
These recent string of operations reflect a renewed momentum in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency, and mark a significant step forward in restoring safety and stability to communities long affected by terrorism.
As the nation continues to battle extremist threats, these victories are a testament to the courage of Nigeria’s security forces and the growing role of intelligence in keeping citizens safe.
We will keep following this story and bring you further updates on the ground.
Reporting Ehud Jones.
