Major General Michael Onoja, Director of the Defence Media Operations, has stated that the military’s sustained offensive against terrorist groups across Nigeria is significantly weakening their operational strength, with some insurgents reportedly dying from accidental explosions while attempting to evade troops.
Speaking during an interview aired on the official YouTube channel of Arise News on Sunday, May 17, 2026, Onoja said intensified military pressure has disrupted the activities of terrorist networks, forcing them into difficult conditions that have contributed to operational failures.
According to him, security forces have successfully cornered many insurgents, limiting their movement and making it difficult for them to coordinate attacks effectively. He explained that the pressure mounted by troops has forced some terrorists into hiding, where they struggle to safely manage explosive devices.
While discussing recent developments in the fight against insurgency and Nigeria’s collaboration with international partners, Onoja revealed that some militants have suffered casualties from accidental bomb explosions.
In his words,“they are even detonating bombs on themselves because they are hiding away from us,” while referring to members of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) who reportedly died in a recent incident.
His remarks come amid reports of increased military operations in parts of the North-East, particularly in Borno State, where troops have intensified efforts to dismantle terrorist enclaves and disrupt supply routes used by insurgent groups.
Onoja noted that the continued offensive has made it increasingly difficult for terrorists to regroup or carry out coordinated operations. According to him, the military remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements until peace and stability are fully restored in affected regions.
He also urged residents to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence, stressing that public cooperation remains important in strengthening ongoing counterterrorism efforts…….See More
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