Troops of the 22 Armoured Brigade of the Nigerian Army, with extensive support from the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), have launched Operation Igbo Danu, achieving significant successes in degrading terrorist networks and restoring security across Kwara State between 23 and 29 January 2026.
According to a statement released by the Army on Friday, the offensive, conducted under the leadership of Major General Chinedu Nnebife, General Officer Commanding (GOC) 2 Division Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 3, Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY), alongside Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, Commander of the 22 Brigade, highlighted the Army’s operational effectiveness and determination to dismantle terrorist and bandit networks.
During the operation, troops carried out fighting patrols in several known bandit enclaves. The missions resulted in the neutralisation of terrorists, while some escaped into the forest with suspected gunshot wounds. Bandit hideouts and camps were destroyed, dislodging insurgent elements and crippling their operational bases.
In Ifelodun Local Government Area, troops cleared Garin Dandi, a notorious bandit enclave, demolishing logistics bases and supply systems that supported criminal activities. Remote camps previously inaccessible to security forces were also stormed, resulting in the destruction of abandoned camps and other infrastructure used by terrorists.
Despite challenging terrain, troops maintained an aggressive posture throughout forested areas, restricting bandits’ movements. Fleeing elements were intercepted at multiple blocking positions, leading to arrests, while several kidnapped victims were rescued from various camps across the state.
Observations from the operation indicate that bandits receive support from collaborators in nearby communities, who provide intelligence allowing insurgents to evade security forces. Nevertheless, the successes recorded underscore the resolve and operational effectiveness of the 2 Division in degrading terrorist elements and restoring security in Kwara State.
The GOC of 2 Division has urged the public to continue providing credible and timely information on bandits and their collaborators to support ongoing operations. Operation Igbo Danu is ongoing, aiming to decisively eliminate all terrorist networks operating within Kwara State.
