By Abdulahmeed Abdulrozaq Bilal | Fact Frontier.
Click here to read more about the reporter.
The Nigerian Army has shown great strength and commitment in protecting the country this year. From January 2025 up to September 17, 2025, the army has carried out several successful operations against kidnappers, terrorists, oil thieves, and separatist groups. These operations have saved lives, restored hope, and reduced fear in many communities. One of the most important successes happened on September 16, 2025, when soldiers arrested a notorious commander of IPOB/ESN, Ifeanyi Eze Okorienta (Gentle de Yahoo) in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State. This event has been described as a big step forward for peace and security in the southeast region.
Since the start of the year, the Nigerian Army has been active across the country. In January 2025, soldiers carried out operations in Borno State that led to the death of about 76 Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters and rescued eight kidnapped victims. According to Reuters on January 16, 2025,
Troops conducted operations across Borno and neutralized dozens of terrorists, while also arresting several suspects and freeing innocent citizens.This made life safer for communities in the northeast.
In the northwest, the army has also battled kidnappers and bandits. In late January, they announced that 79 armed criminals had been killed, 252 suspects arrested, and 67 hostages freed. The Associated Press reported on January 24, 2025, that
security forces have intensified patrols and raids, leading to mass arrests and the freeing of kidnapped persons.This showed that the army was not only fighting terrorists but was also protecting ordinary Nigerians from criminals on the highways and in villages.
The fight against oil theft has also been successful. In Rivers and Bayelsa States, the army’s 6 Division carried out operations to stop illegal refineries and oil thieves. The Guardian reported on January 21, 2025, that
Our operational successes have reduced oil theft and pollution, and Nigeria’s oil production has risen close to two million barrels per day.By stopping illegal oil activities, the army helped Nigeria’s economy and also reduced environmental damage in oil-producing communities.
Throughout 2025, different operations like Operation HADIN KAI in the northeast and Operation FASNAN YAMMA in Niger State produced good results. In one raid, 64 terrorists were killed, 28 others arrested, and 14 hostages rescued. These actions gave Nigerians more confidence that the army was winning the battle against insecurity.
The operation that took place on September 16, 2025, however, was a turning point in the southeast. Soldiers of the 34 Artillery Brigade, working with other security agencies, stormed the hideout of a feared IPOB/ESN commander in Aku-Ihube, Okigwe, Imo State. The commander, known for terrorizing villages, kidnapping people, and running illegal operations, was captured alive. According to Daily Post on September 16, 2025,
Troops captured the notorious ESN commander in his hideout and recovered arms, ammunition, uniforms, and other materials.The items seized included an English pistol, over 140 rounds of ammunition, military and police uniforms, six mobile phones, and a German flag used by the group. Soldiers also discovered a workshop where stolen vehicles were dismantled and destroyed ten motorcycles used by the gang.
This commander, often described as one of the most dangerous in the region, had for years disturbed peace in Okigwe and neighboring communities. Vanguard reported that he was deeply involved in kidnappings, extortion, and attacks on security forces. Many villagers lived in fear of him and his group. With his arrest, residents believe that life can finally return to normal. As one security analyst told Vanguard on September 16, 2025,
The capture of the ESN commander in Aku-Ihube will restore calm to the area and weaken the group’s ability to terrorize citizens.
The impact of this arrest is already being felt. Roads in Okigwe are becoming safer, markets and schools are opening without fear, and villagers say they can move around more freely. The Nigerian Army confirmed that the operation was carried out based on intelligence and without major civilian casualties. This careful and professional approach has earned them praise.
Internationally, the arrest has been seen as a warning to violent groups that no one is beyond the reach of the law. Such results not only encourage Nigerians but also strengthen the country’s image globally.
From January to September 2025, the Nigerian Army has fought Boko Haram in the northeast, reduced kidnapping in the northwest, stopped oil theft in the Niger Delta, and now captured a notorious IPOB/ESN commander in the southeast. These are not just military victories but also victories for ordinary Nigerians who want to live in peace. The bravery and sacrifice of soldiers deserve commendation.
To end this, the September 16, 2025 operation in Aku-Ihube stands out as one of the greatest successes of the Nigerian Army this year. By arresting the commander and dismantling his criminal network, the army has given new hope to people in Imo State and the wider southeast. The road ahead may still have challenges, but this operation shows that with courage, intelligence, and determination, the Nigerian Army can defeat any group that tries to bring fear and destruction to Nigeria. The people now look forward to lasting peace and security as the country moves on from these victories.
