Northern Youth Frontiers Commends Nigerian Leadership for Major Counter-Terrorism Victory
The Northern Youth Frontiers (NYF) has expressed strong approval of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, and the top brass of Nigeria’s military and intelligence agencies following the successful apprehension of two high-ranking commanders from the Al-Qaeda-affiliated terrorist faction, Ansaru.
Strategic Operation Leads to Capture of Key Terror Figures
According to verified sources, a meticulously coordinated intelligence-led mission culminated in the detention of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, widely known as Abu Bara’a and self-proclaimed “Emir of Ansaru,” along with his deputy, Mahmud al-Nigeri (also called Mallam Mamuda), who heads the “Mahmudawa” faction active near Kainji National Park.
Significance of the Arrests in Nigeria’s Security Landscape
In an official statement, NYF’s national coordinator, Sama Musa, hailed the arrests as a “critical setback not only to Ansaru’s core leadership but also to allied terrorist networks and their facilitators across Nigeria.” He emphasized that this achievement highlights the growing effectiveness of counter-terrorism strategies implemented under President Tinubu’s administration, which have consistently disrupted violent extremist groups.
Collaboration Among Security Agencies Praised
The NYF lauded the seamless cooperation among the Nigerian Armed Forces, Police, Department of State Services (DSS), National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Defence Intelligence Agency (DIA), and other security partners. The group credited their professionalism, dedication, and sacrifices as pivotal to the operation’s success.
Additionally, the United States Embassy in Nigeria publicly acknowledged the country’s efforts in apprehending the Ansaru leaders, describing this milestone as a positive reinforcement of international partnerships in combating terrorism.
Building on a Series of Counter-Terrorism Successes
NYF recalled that this recent breakthrough adds to a growing list of victories against terrorist and bandit groups since President Tinubu took office. These include the elimination or capture of notorious figures such as Halilu Sububu, Buhari Alhaji Halidu (Buharin Yadi), Dangote, Boderi Isyaku, Dogo Gudali, Dogo Rabe, Alhaji Auta, Rufai Maikaji, Yellow, Ali Kachalla, Ali Kawaji, and the arrest of Muslim Muhammad Yusuf, son of the late Boko Haram leader.
Just last weekend, the Nigerian Air Force reportedly neutralized 35 terrorists in Borno State, while security forces rescued 75 abducted individuals in Katsina State, underscoring a sustained offensive that continues to weaken terror networks nationwide.
Community Involvement: A Crucial Element in Counter-Terrorism
The NYF also recognized the indispensable role played by vigilant local communities, whose cooperation has been essential in denying terrorists safe operational bases.
“We urge security agencies to maintain and intensify their efforts, rapidly leveraging recovered intelligence to dismantle remaining terror cells, sponsors, and facilitators. With unwavering determination, we are moving closer to eradicating the terror groups and bandits that have long plagued our communities,” Musa stated.
Recommendations for Sustained Peace and Security
The organization called on the government to strengthen community stabilization and victim assistance programs in affected regions, ensuring that arrested commanders face justice to serve as a deterrent.
Furthermore, NYF encouraged state governments to complement federal initiatives by supporting community-based security measures, enhancing intelligence sharing, promoting youth empowerment, and implementing counter-extremism programs aimed at reducing terrorist recruitment.
Commitment to Partnership and Civic Engagement
Reaffirming its dedication to collaborate with relevant authorities, the NYF pledged to back civic education campaigns, counter-radicalization efforts, and community reporting networks.
“Terrorism has no place in our region. Through sustained commitment and collective action, groups like Ansaru will be completely dismantled, paving the way for lasting peace and security in our communities,” Musa concluded.
0 Comments