Military: Rainfall, Muddy Terrain Hampering War Against Terrorists

The military has said the ongoing rainy season and difficult terrain are posing significant challenges to operations against terrorists across parts of northern Nigeria, particularly in the North-West.

The Theatre Commander of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, Major General W.B. Idris, disclosed this during an interactive session with defence correspondents in Gusau, Zamfara State, on Thursday.

Idris explained that months of sustained military offensives, intelligence-led raids and area domination patrols have significantly weakened terrorist groups operating within the theatre.

According to him, the military now exercises effective control over most major highways and strategic transportation corridors covered by Operation Fansan Yamma.

“Our troops have dominated virtually all the major roads across the theatre. Trunk A and Trunk B roads are well secured through sustained military presence, patrols and offensive operations,” he said.

The commander noted that between January and April 2026, the operation recorded consistent successes, including the recovery of an average of five weapons every week and the neutralisation of at least ten terrorists weekly.

He said the sustained military pressure has forced terrorists to abandon direct confrontations with security forces and adopt new tactics.

According to Idris, the criminals have retreated into remote forests, rocky terrain and isolated communities where they attack vulnerable residents, especially farmers.

“They have realised that the major roads are no longer safe for them. They now move deep into the hinterland, where they attack isolated farmers and vulnerable communities,” he stated.

He explained that attacks in remote locations often create the false impression that security forces are absent, whereas such communities are difficult to access.

Idris further said the rainy season has compounded operational difficulties because heavy military vehicles struggle to navigate flooded and muddy routes leading into forest hideouts.

“Our operational vehicles are heavy military platforms. During the rainy season, movement becomes extremely difficult because the terrain becomes soft and inaccessible,” he explained.

He added that although the military relies heavily on air support to reach difficult terrain, adverse weather conditions also affect aerial operations.

Despite the challenges, Idris assured Nigerians that Operation Fansan Yamma remains committed to sustaining pressure on terrorist groups.

“We are not relenting in our efforts. We shall continue to pursue terrorists wherever they are hiding, irrespective of the terrain or weather conditions,” he said.