The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has revealed that Nigerian security forces neutralized 8,034 terrorists in 2024 through coordinated efforts involving the military, police, and other agencies.
Zakari Mijinyawa, Director of Legal Services and Coordinator for Strategic Communications at ONSA, disclosed this during a press briefing on Monday in Abuja.
Key Achievements in 2024:
- Arrests and Rescues:
- 11,623 suspected terrorists apprehended.
- 7,967 kidnapped victims rescued.
- Weapons and Ammunition:
- 10,200 weapons and 224,709 rounds of ammunition recovered from terrorists and other criminal actors.
- Criminal Activities Curbed:
- 30,313 suspected criminals arrested.
- 1,438 stolen vehicles recovered.
Mijinyawa highlighted that security forces prevented oil theft valued at N57 billion and boosted crude oil production to 1.8 million barrels per day. Efforts included dismantling illegal refinery sites and deploying advanced surveillance technologies, such as UAVs and naval assets, in the Niger Delta region.
Other Notable Contributions:
- Correctional Services: Over 80,000 inmates were housed, 30,000 received vocational training, and 1,000 graduated with degrees from the National Open University of Nigeria (NOUN).
- Drug Enforcement: The NDLEA arrested 14,480 individuals, seized 2.37 million kilograms of illicit drugs, and secured 2,867 convictions.
- Revenue Generation: The Nigeria Customs Service exceeded its revenue target, collecting N5.49 trillion, an 8.1% surplus.
- Disaster Relief: NEMA distributed 42,000 metric tons of food to vulnerable populations across all 36 states and the FCT.
The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) conducted rescue operations for 7,872 crashes, saving 25,127 injured individuals and recovering 72 stolen vehicles. Meanwhile, the Federal Fire Service (FFS) saved 292 lives and protected property valued at N1.27 trillion during fire incidents.
Mijinyawa commended the resilience and commitment of all personnel, acknowledging their sacrifices in ensuring national security and stability.
