THE Nigerian Army has rescued 75 civilians from Boko Haram and ISWAP strongholds in the Sambisa Forest, Borno State.
The captives, comprising seven adult males, 34 women, and 34 children, were handed over at Maimalari Cantonment in Maiduguri today.
Maj. Gen. Waidi Shuaibu, Theatre Commander of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), announced this while briefing journalists.
Represented by Deputy Theatre Commander Brig. Gen. Anthony Okpodu, he stated that the operation significantly weakened terrorist groups by neutralizing insurgents, destroying command centers, weapon caches, makeshift shelters, and IED-making facilities.
According to Gen. Okpodu, troops from the 21 Special Armoured Brigade and 199 Special Forces Battalion recently conducted a clearance operation under Operation Desert Sanity IV in areas including Ukuba, Njimia, Sabil Huda, Garin Falluja, and Gobara.
“The operation successfully liberated 75 civilians and disrupted key terrorist structures,” he said.
He emphasized that OPHK, in collaboration with the Borno State government, remains committed to stabilizing the region and restoring normalcy.
Beyond military operations, OPHK is also engaged in humanitarian efforts, particularly in line with the World Health Organization’s Reaching Inaccessible Children (RIC) Initiative.
During the rescue mission, soldiers provided essential aid, including child vaccinations, first aid, medical care, food, and psychological support.
“The rescued individuals received immediate medical attention, clothing, food, and temporary shelter while reintegration efforts are underway,” Gen. Okpodu added.
He reaffirmed OPHK’s commitment to eliminating insurgent threats, protecting civilian populations, and fostering an environment conducive to governance and socio-economic development.
He urged the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with security forces by reporting any suspicious activities.
Receiving the victims on behalf of the Borno State government, Hajiya Aisha Shettima, Director of Social Welfare at the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, commended the military’s efforts.
She confirmed that the rescued individuals would be moved to the state’s rehabilitation center, where they would receive psychological and livelihood support to aid their reintegration into society.
