13,500 terrorists, criminals neutralised since 2023 – NSA

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, on Thursday disclosed that security forces have neutralised over 13,543 terrorists and other criminal elements across Nigeria since May 2023, marking significant progress in the country’s fight against insecurity.

Ribadu made the revelation while addressing participants at the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Summit held at the Banquet Hall of the State House, Abuja.

He said the military and intelligence services recorded notable achievements in counter-terrorism operations under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, especially in tackling insurgents, bandits, and other armed groups operating in various regions.

According to him, no fewer than 124,408 members of Boko Haram and the Islamic State in West Africa Province (ISWAP) — including their family members — have surrendered to Nigerian forces since last year. Many are now undergoing rehabilitation through the government’s de-radicalisation and reintegration programme.

“In the last year alone, our troops have neutralised 13,543 terrorists and recovered or destroyed 252,596 rounds of assorted ammunition,” Ribadu said.

The NSA’s disclosure comes against the backdrop of Nigeria’s ongoing struggle with multiple security challenges, from the Boko Haram insurgency in the Northeast to widespread banditry in the Northwest and North Central, as well as separatist agitations and criminal violence in the South.

The insurgency in the Northeast, which began in 2009, has claimed over 350,000 lives—directly and indirectly—according to the United Nations, and has displaced more than two million people.

Despite repeated efforts to degrade the capabilities of Boko Haram and ISWAP, both groups remain active, particularly in parts of Borno and Yobe states, where attacks, ambushes, and bombings continue to pose significant threats.

Ribadu noted that recent security improvements are the result of better inter-agency collaboration, increased investment in intelligence capabilities, and strong political commitment from the Tinubu-led administration.
The APC National Summit was a platform for reviewing the administration’s mid-term performance, with a special focus on security, economic reforms, infrastructure, and governance.

Ribadu’s presentation also highlighted the government’s resolve to restore stability and protect citizens across all regions, even as new security threats emerge.