Group lauds gains in armed forces operations against insecurity

The National Initiative for Peace and Security (NIPS) has commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for what it described as significant operational successes recorded across multiple theatres in the first quarter of 2026. Speaking on behalf of the group, its Executive Director, Adams Kings, said the military, under the leadership of Olufemi Oluyede, intensified coordinated […]

The National Initiative for Peace and Security (NIPS) has commended the Armed Forces of Nigeria for what it described as significant operational successes recorded across multiple theatres in the first quarter of 2026.

Speaking on behalf of the group, its Executive Director, Adams Kings, said the military, under the leadership of Olufemi Oluyede, intensified coordinated operations, resulting in the neutralisation of over 200 terrorists, the arrest of nearly 300 suspects, and the rescue of approximately 188 kidnapped civilians in April alone.

In its quarterly report on the war against insecurity, NIPS said the gains were recorded across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, South-South, and South-East regions, reflecting what it described as improved logistical capacity, enhanced inter-service coordination, and a strategic shift from conventional engagements to dismantling the support systems of criminal networks.

NIPS described the period as a defining phase in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency and internal security efforts.

“The Armed Forces have demonstrated a significant increase in operational tempo across the country. These outcomes reflect a more aggressive and coordinated approach that targets both the combat and support structures of criminal networks,” the NIPS report stated.

The organisation noted that operations were carried out nationwide, indicating what it called improved strategic planning.

“In the North-East, sustained offensives have continued to degrade insurgent strongholds with the killing of over 130 terrorists. Similar disruptions were recorded in the North-West through bandit neutralisation and victim rescues,” it added.

The report also highlighted a growing focus on systemic disruption, including the destruction of camps, illegal arms production facilities, and logistics networks, which it said is aimed at weakening the long-term operational capacity of criminal groups.

“Rescues of women, children, farmers, and other civilians have restored dignity to affected communities and reinforced public trust in state institutions.

“Operations also adhered to rules of engagement and international humanitarian standards, helping to maintain legitimacy.”

While acknowledging the role of public discourse in a democracy, NIPS expressed concern over what it described as narratives in the political space that could affect public perception of security efforts.

“While democratic systems thrive on debate and dissent, NIPS notes with concern that certain narratives within the political space may affect the morale of security forces and shape public perception of ongoing efforts.

“Some elements within the political space have engaged in conduct that, in our view, risks echoing narratives exploited by terrorist and criminal groups.

“This includes dismissing reported military gains, amplifying fear without context, and framing national security challenges primarily as tools for political contestation.”

The group cautioned that the politicisation of security issues could have unintended consequences, noting that such narratives may influence how criminal elements perceive the operational environment.

NIPS stressed that when national security becomes entangled in political rivalry, both civilians and frontline personnel are affected.

Despite the reported gains, the organisation said challenges persist, particularly as criminal groups adapt to difficult terrains and exploit local grievances.

It recommended sustained offensive operations, increased investment in intelligence gathering, and stronger civil-military relations.

The group also called for prioritised funding and timely release of resources to support ongoing operations.

“National security should not be trivialised or weaponised for political gain. All actors must recognise that their words carry consequences beyond political advantage,” the report emphasised.

NIPS further urged political leaders to exercise restraint in public statements and called for enhanced socio-economic interventions to address the root causes of instability.

Kings also advocated a unified national narrative that promotes collective responsibility and resilience against extremist propaganda.

The organisation concluded that the first quarter of 2026 reflects what it described as improving effectiveness of Nigeria’s security forces under Oluyede’s leadership, while emphasising the need for national cohesion to sustain progress.