Nigerian Army Conducts Forest Mission, Forces Bandits to Retreat in Kwara

The Nigerian Army has announced that its troops have achieved notable successes in combating bandits and terrorist activities in parts of

Kwara State, thanks to ongoing operations under a campaign known as Operation Igbo Danu, which is also called Operation Forest Flush.

According to a statement released on Friday by Maureen Ogubka, the Army Public Relations officer for the 2 Division, the operations undertaken by the 22 Armoured Brigade received backing from the National Security Adviser's office and took place from January 23 to January 29, 2026.

The press release indicated that this offensive was aimed specifically at dismantling terrorist networks operating in the division's joint operational area.

Ogubka reported, "The troops executed coordinated fighting patrols across numerous bandit hideouts where they neutralized terrorists, although some managed to flee into the forests with possible gunshot injuries."

The operation led by General Officer Commanding 2 Division, Chinedu Nnebife, alongside Nicholas Rume, Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, contributed to a larger strategic framework under Sector 3 of Operation Fansan Yamma.

Troops also made strides in Garin Dandi, a well-known bandit enclave in Ifelodun Local Government Area, destroying supply routes and logistical bases utilized by these groups. The army progressed into previously inaccessible forest areas, uncovering and dismantling abandoned camps and logistical support systems.

Despite the challenging terrain, the military noted that they sustained pressure across the forest regions, effectively obstructing escape routes and capturing fleeing suspects.

"Multiple suspected bandits were apprehended at blocking positions, and numerous victims of kidnappings were rescued from various camps throughout the state," the statement noted further.

There were, however, concerns raised regarding local accomplices. Ms. Ogubka pointed out that bandits appeared to receive assistance from individuals within nearby communities, who reportedly provided crucial intelligence on troop movements, enabling timely withdrawals from targeted locales.

The achievements highlighted the division's commitment to diminishing terrorist threats and restoring security in Kwara. The operation is ongoing, with renewed emphasis on local collaboration and intelligence sharing.

This latest military action comes amid increased security measures in Kwara, following a troubling rise in kidnappings and banditry along the Ifelodun, Edu, and Patigi regions.

Security analysts view these operations as reflective of a nationwide trend, noting the military's recent operational successes against armed groups, including high-ranking terrorists' apprehensions and the rescue of many abductees through precise intelligence-driven operations.

However, experts caution that while immediate tactical successes are encouraging, they may not lead to enduring security. They highlight the necessity for improved intelligence sharing, accountability, and non-military strategies to address issues such as poverty and community collaboration in the fight against banditry.

The army has urged residents to support ongoing operations, with Ms. Ogubka requesting the public to provide reliable information regarding bandits and their associates to bolster efforts against terrorist activities within Kwara State.