- Nigerian Army vows zero tolerance for bandits and terrorists in 2026
- Guards Brigade intensifies operations across Abuja and neighbouring states
- Weapons recovered, suspects arrested during 2025 clearance missions
- Army assures residents of stronger security presence in the FCT
The Nigerian Army has issued a fresh warning to bandits and criminal groups, declaring that 2026 will be decisive in flushing out insecurity across Abuja and surrounding areas, as the military steps up operations to prevent criminals from finding safe haven anywhere within the Federal Capital Territory.
The warning was issued by the Guards Brigade of the Nigerian Army, which said it would maintain peak operational readiness and deal firmly with any threat to peace and security in the FCT and its environs.
ATTENTION: Click “HERE” to join our WhatsApp group and receive News updates directly on your WhatsApp!
The Commander of the Guards Brigade, Brigadier-General Adebisi Onasanya, delivered the message on Saturday during the annual Aso Rock ascent in Abuja, an exercise that marked the end of the brigade’s training activities for the year.
Onasanya described 2025 as a challenging year, noting that the brigade’s duties went beyond protecting the President to include intensified security operations across Abuja and neighbouring areas.
According to him, the Guards Brigade conducted multiple clearance operations in crime-prone locations such as Bwari, Abaji, Gwagwalada, and parts of Niger State, leading to the arrest of suspects, recovery of arms, and neutralisation of bandits.
“At the beginning of the year, we had a lot of bandits lurking around. We carried out several clearance operations and made arrests, recovered weapons, and neutralised criminals,” Onasanya said.
He stressed that criminal elements attempting to destabilise the FCT were swiftly apprehended and dealt with in line with the law, adding that the brigade would not allow insecurity to take root.
The commander credited the successes recorded to strong collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, DSS, NSCDC, as well as support from the Nigerian Navy and Nigerian Air Force.
Onasanya praised officers and soldiers of the Guards Brigade for their professionalism and discipline throughout the year, noting that no major disciplinary issues were recorded.
Looking ahead, he urged troops to prepare for tougher responsibilities in 2026, especially following the President’s declaration of a state of emergency in the security sector.
“As we move into 2026, no stone will be left unturned. Any bandits or criminals who think they can hide within our area of responsibility will be disappointed,” he added.
The Guards Brigade is responsible for protecting the President and critical national assets within Abuja and surrounding locations.
