“Every operational resource was deployed in the hope of securing his safe return. This sad loss further strengthens the resolve of the AFN,” he said.
Mr Onoja said the operations significantly degraded criminal capabilities.
The DHQ claimed the beheading of a teacher and kidnapping of pupils were “an isolated criminal act and does not reflect the existence of any entrenched terrorist structure”.
The operations were carried out in collaboration with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM).
Defence chief Olufemi Oluyede has called for a strategic shift in Nigeria’s peacekeeping engagements to ensure they deliver tangible national benefits beyond troop contributions.
In the South-South, he said troops of Operation Delta Safe sustained anti-oil theft operations.
Mr Oluyede said that improved collaboration with stakeholders was yielding positive security outcomes.
Mr Onoja said the troops responded to multiple distress calls linked to sea piracy, illegal refining and other criminal activities.
The DHQ noted that officers involved in the plot will be charged in accordance with military judicial regulations.
According to him, the operations led to the arrest of dozens of terrorists’ collaborators.
