The nation’s defense authorities have announced a significant victory in the fight against terrorism, neutralizing 101 extremists and apprehending a top militant leader, Usman Maisaje, along with 182 other suspects.

The successful operations also freed 157 captives, dealing a blow to terrorist networks.

In the North East, security forces neutralized 54 insurgents, apprehended 71 suspects, and rescued 39 hostages. Additionally, 74 terrorists surrendered, including seven adult males, 17 adult females, and 44 children.

In the North Central region, 12 violent extremists were neutralized, 42 suspects arrested, and 56 hostages rescued. Meanwhile, in the North West, 28 terrorists were eliminated, 57 arrested, and 44 hostages freed.

The Niger Delta region saw the destruction of 60 illegal refining sites, recovery of 712,535 liters of stolen crude oil, and arrest of 45 oil thieves.

Maisaje, a close associate of notorious terrorist leader Kachalla Boka, is cooperating with authorities, providing crucial intelligence for future operations.