13,500 Terrorists Killed, Over 124,000 Insurgents Surrendered Since May 2023 — NSA Ribadu
ABUJA — Nigeria’s National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, disclosed that 13,543 terrorists and other criminal elements have been neutralized across the country since May 2023, marking significant progress in the federal government’s ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.
Ribadu made this revelation at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Policy and Development Summit, held on Thursday at the Banquet Hall of the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
“Our troops have neutralised 13,543 terrorists,” Ribadu said, addressing party chieftains, government officials, and security stakeholders.
📉 Breakdown of Nigeria’s Counter-Insurgency Success:
- 13,543 terrorists and criminals killed across the country
- 124,408 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters and their family members surrendered to the Nigerian military
- 252,596 rounds of ammunition recovered and destroyed
- Insurgents currently undergoing de-radicalisation and reintegration
🌍 Ongoing Security Challenges
Despite the reported successes, Nigeria remains a country battling multiple security threats across various zones:
- Northeast: Boko Haram and ISWAP continue ambushes and bombings, particularly in Borno and Yobe
- Northwest and North Central: Banditry and communal violence persist
- Plateau, Benue, and Borno States: Recent attacks have claimed civilian lives in renewed waves of violence
📊 Factors Behind Improved Security — Ribadu
The NSA attributed the improved results to:
- Increased inter-agency collaboration
- Investment in intelligence gathering
- Strong political will from the Tinubu-led administration
🧠 National Security Strategy & Political Backing
Ribadu’s remarks came during a broader assessment of the Tinubu administration’s achievements under the “Renewed Hope Agenda.” He stressed that security gains were part of a strategic, long-term plan backed by decisive leadership and modernized tactics.
