The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, has declared that the walls are closing in on terrorists and bandits operating across Nigeria.
Musa said it at the closing of the 2025 CDS Joint Task Force Commanders Conference themed “Enhancing Jointness Across all Theatres of Operation” in Abuja this Friday. Musa said a notorious bandit leader, Kachana Nafaresh, along with several of his fighters, was killed in a decisive military raid in Zamfara forest on Thursday night.
He also confirmed that troops stormed the hideout of Sani Black, a key figure in banditry, burning down his house and forcing him to flee, adding that his house had served as a strategic base for criminal activities.
“In a follow-up operation, troops advanced into Tufan and Mashima villages, further dislodging armed groups and pushing them deeper into the forest,” Musa said.
He added that security forces returned to the camp of the notorious bandit, Bello Turji, which had been targeted in previous offensives, and completely destroyed the remaining structures.
“Reports indicate that both Turji and Sani Black are now desperately seeking escape routes as military pressure intensifies,” he added.
Musa assured that ongoing operations indicate no shift in the government’s stance against banditry, particularly in Zamfara and the wider Northwest region.
“For years, bandits and terrorists have exploited difficult terrain, creating well-fortified hideouts while launching deadly attacks on communities,” he said.
“However, with current operations gaining momentum, the tide is turning as troops intensify ground and air offensives. Special forces from the land, maritime, and air components are working together to secure the nation.”
Musa emphasised the need for collaboration, resource-sharing, and synergy among security forces to maximise impact and achieve strategic objectives.
“By breaking down barriers and leveraging each other’s strengths, we can improve operational effectiveness,” he said.
He charged commanders to remain committed and innovative, stressing that President Bola Tinubu has given a clear mandate to secure Nigeria.
The event, attended by past and serving defence chiefs, service chiefs, and operational commanders, also featured the presentation of medals to deserving officers who demonstrated unblemished records within their first 180 days in command.