By: John Bassey, Zamfara.

The Nigerian Army troop, established with the sole aim of eradicating banditry and kidnapping activities in the Northwest, has announced its successful operational records for the first quarter of 2026.

According to the statement issued by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, the
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA
To journalists in the region, the operational victories recorded by divers’ troops were made known to the public.

Troops of Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA commenced all-out operations within the week against terrorists enclaves across Sokoto, Zamfara and Kebbi States aimed at protecting communities and neutralizing terrorists.

In Sokoto State, on 25 March 2026, troops of the COAS Intervention Battalion VII made 2 separate contacts with terrorists at Magonho Forest where they eliminated 3 bandits and recovered 3 AK-47 rifles and motorcycles.

In Zamfara State, on 25 March 2026, troops executed a successful ambush along the Gada Maya – Makakari Village road, neutralizing 2 terrorists and forcing others to retreat in disarray. The operation led to the recovery of one AK-47 rifle, 3 magazines, 55 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition, one Baofeng radio, 2 mobile phones, and one motorcycle.

Later the same day, terrorists attempted to retaliate by attacking Kaida Village, falsely accusing the villagers of collaborating with security forces. The troops responded swiftly, neutralizing an additional terrorist and recovering another AK-47 rifle.

In another development, troops acting on credible intelligence conducted a clearance operation in Dutsi Village, Moriki District, Zurmi Local Government Area. The operation forced terrorists to abandon one AK-47 rifle, one magazine, and 26 rounds of 7.62mm Special ammunition as they fled under sustained military pressure.

In Kebbi State, troops received information on the Lakurawa Terrorist Group (LTG) in Giron Masa community, Shanga Local Government Area while responding, they were ambushed 500 metres before the village. Despite the ambush by the fleeing terrorists, the troops remained undeterred as reinforcements and combat enablers have been deployed to the general area, and intelligence-led operations to track and neutralize the fleeing terrorists are ongoing.

8 Division/Sector 2 OPFY remains resolute in its mission to dominate the operational space, degrade terrorist capabilities, and protect law-abiding citizens. The morale of the troops is high, and their actions reflect the core values of courage, professionalism, and service to the nation. The Division will continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of all communities in the North West, in line with the strategic directives of the Chief of Army Staff.