Nigerian Security Forces Intensify Operations Against Crime, Terrorism Across Multiple States
Nigeria's military and police are conducting coordinated security operations across several states, including a new anti-terrorism initiative in Kwara State and harbour defence exercises in Lagos, while making arrests in high-profile murder cases.
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Nigerian security forces have launched multiple operations to combat crime and terrorism across the country, with Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRasaq announcing that residents will "now sleep better" following the operationalization of Operation Savannah Shield. The Chief of Defence Staff issued stern warnings to terrorists as the new initiative takes effect in the state.
The security push comes as authorities coordinate responses to various criminal activities. In Lagos, police have arrested two suspects in connection with the murders of two princes from the Ajiran community, Sherrif Isola Salami and another victim, according to The Nation Newspaper.
Naval Operations Target Maritime Security
The Western Naval Command flagged off Operation AWKWARD 2026 in Lagos to prevent unauthorized activities around harbours and back channels. The strategic harbour defence exercise aims to secure Lagos waters and protect critical maritime infrastructure in Nigeria's commercial capital.
"The exercise is coming at a time when maritime security remains crucial to Nigeria's economic interests," naval officials stated during the flag-off ceremony. The operation will focus on monitoring vessel movements and preventing illegal activities in Lagos harbour areas.
Maritime security has become increasingly important for Nigeria as the country seeks to protect shipping lanes and prevent piracy in the Gulf of Guinea. The Western Naval Command's latest initiative represents part of broader efforts to safeguard the nation's coastal regions and waterways.
Kidnapping Crisis Claims Life in Ekiti
Security challenges extend beyond terrorism and murder investigations. In Ekiti State, one woman died in captivity while six other victims regained freedom after being abducted from Erinmope-Ekiti in Moba Local Government Area, The Nation Newspaper reported.
The family of the seven abducted residents has been thrown into mourning following the death of the victim while in the hands of kidnappers. The incident highlights the persistent threat of kidnapping-for-ransom that continues to plague rural communities across Nigeria's southern and central regions.
Kidnapping has become a lucrative criminal enterprise in Nigeria, with armed groups targeting travelers on highways and residents in remote communities. Security analysts estimate that hundreds of Nigerians are currently held captive by various criminal groups demanding ransoms from families.
High-Profile Murder Investigation Advances
The Lagos State Police Command has made significant progress in investigating the murders of the Ajiran princes. Two prime suspects are now in custody, while the Chief Executive of an undisclosed entity has been declared wanted in connection with the case.
Police officials confirmed the arrests but provided limited details about the circumstances surrounding the murders or the identities of those detained. The investigation continues as authorities seek additional suspects linked to the killings that shocked the Ajiran community.
Lagos, as Nigeria's most populous city and economic hub, faces persistent security challenges ranging from gang violence to organized crime. The police command has increased patrols and intelligence gathering efforts to address rising crime rates in various neighborhoods.
Coordinated Security Response
The simultaneous security operations across multiple states reflect Nigeria's multi-pronged approach to addressing diverse threats. Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara State specifically targets terrorist elements that have increasingly moved into Nigeria's Middle Belt region from the troubled northeast.
Governor AbdulRasaq's statement about residents sleeping better suggests the operation will include increased military presence and intelligence-driven raids against suspected terrorist hideouts. Kwara State borders several states experiencing security challenges, making it strategically important for preventing terrorist expansion.
The Chief of Defence Staff's warning to terrorists signals that military forces will employ robust measures against armed groups. Nigeria's military has been engaged in counter-insurgency operations for over a decade, primarily against Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province in the northeast.
Security analysts note that the coordination between military operations like Operation Savannah Shield and police investigations into murders and kidnappings demonstrates improved inter-agency cooperation. However, they caution that sustained funding and intelligence sharing remain essential for long-term success against criminal networks.
The operations come as Nigeria prepares for 2027 elections, with security remaining a top concern for citizens across all regions. Political leaders face mounting pressure to demonstrate tangible improvements in public safety ahead of the electoral cycle.