The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) commends the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and the officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army, working in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Mobile Force (MOPOL) and other security agencies, for the recent operational successes recorded against terrorists in different parts of the country.
HURIWA particularly applauds the swift and courageous response of troops of Operation HADIN KAI and MOPOL in foiling the attempted mass abduction at the Federal Government Girls College, Monguno, Borno State, leading to the rescue of 46 students from the clutches of suspected ISWAP terrorists. This decisive action once again demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated intelligence-driven operations and the commitment of Nigeria’s security forces to protecting innocent citizens and safeguarding educational institutions.
While deeply saddened by the loss of lives during the terrorist attack, HURIWA extends heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and expresses solidarity with the injured and affected students. The association urges the Federal Government and relevant authorities to strengthen security architecture around schools and other vulnerable public institutions to prevent similar incidents.
The prominent Pro-democracy and civil rights advocacy group HURIWA also welcomes other recent operational breakthroughs by troops of Operation HADIN KAI, including the neutralisation of suspected ISWAP terrorists near the University of Maiduguri, the rescue of additional abductees in Gwoza, which has brought the total number of rescued victims through the Gwoza East Corridor to over one hundred, and the arrest of a suspected terrorist in Katsina State. These achievements underscore the growing effectiveness of sustained military pressure against terrorist networks.
HURIWA further commends the Chief of Army Staff for his clear commitment to strengthening operational efficiency through indigenous innovation, enhanced training, improved combat support capabilities, and greater collaboration within a joint and multi-agency security framework. These initiatives are commendable and deserve sustained institutional backing.
The association recalls previous military successes recorded under Operation HADIN KAI and other theatres of operation, including the elimination of several terrorist commanders, the destruction of insurgents’ logistics bases, the rescue of numerous kidnapped civilians, and the disruption of criminal supply routes. These gains clearly show that consistent offensive operations, supported by actionable intelligence and inter-agency cooperation, can significantly degrade the operational capabilities of terrorists and other violent criminal groups.
HURIWA therefore recommends that the Nigerian military should sustain and further deepen joint combat operations involving the Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, intelligence agencies, local security structures and other relevant stakeholders. Such coordinated operations have continued to produce measurable results and should remain the cornerstone of Nigeria’s counter-terrorism strategy.
The association equally urges all military personnel to continue to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, respect for human rights, the Rules of Engagement and the Law of Armed Conflict while prosecuting the ongoing war against terrorism and other forms of violent criminality. Respect for constitutional and legal safeguards strengthens public confidence in the Armed Forces and reinforces the legitimacy of security operations.
HURIWA believes that the recent operational successes should serve as renewed motivation for the nation’s security institutions to intensify pressure on terrorist groups until they are completely dismantled and Nigerians can once again live, work and pursue education without fear.
The foremost civil Rights body HURIWA assures the Armed Forces and other security agencies of its continued support for lawful, professional and effective operations aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country.
Signed:
Comrade Emmanuel Nnadozie Onwubiko;
National Coordinator
Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
Monday, 20th July 2026.
