No More Mercy: Nigerian Army Promises Crushing Blow To Bandits In 2026

The Nigerian Army’s Guards Brigade has issued a stern warning to terrorists, bandits, and other criminal elements, declaring that no part of its operational zone will serve as a refuge in 2026.

The brigade affirmed its commitment to maintaining high operational readiness and taking decisive action against any threats to security in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and surrounding areas.

Brigadier-General Adebisi Onasanya, Commander of the Guards Brigade, made the announcement on Saturday during the annual ascent of Aso Rock in Abuja, which marked the conclusion of the formation’s yearly training exercises.

Onasanya described 2025 as a challenging year for the brigade, noting that in addition to its primary duty of protecting the President, the unit undertook numerous operations across the FCT and nearby regions.

He highlighted the brigade’s clearance operations in crime-prone areas, which led to arrests, the recovery of weapons, and the neutralization of bandits.

“At the start of the year, bandits were operating freely in several locations. We conducted a series of operations from Bwari to Abaji, Gwagwalada, and parts of Niger State,” Onasanya said. “We made numerous arrests, recovered weapons, and neutralized multiple bandits.”

The commander emphasized that any criminal attempting to disrupt peace within the FCT was apprehended and dealt with according to the law. He reaffirmed the brigade’s determination to prevent criminal activities from taking root in its jurisdiction.

Onasanya credited the year’s successes to collaboration with other security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Department of State Services, as well as support from the Nigerian Navy and Air Force.

He praised the brigade’s personnel for their discipline, dedication, and professionalism, noting that no issues arose regarding commitment throughout the year.

The commander urged his troops to remain vigilant, stressing that 2026 would demand even greater dedication, particularly in line with the President’s declaration of a state of emergency in the security sector.

“As we head into 2026, we must stay fully committed. In line with the President’s security emergency, we will continue to give our best,” Onasanya stated.

Looking forward, he assured Abuja residents that the Guards Brigade would maintain rigorous operational readiness. “Any bandits or criminals hoping to exploit our area as a safe haven will find it extremely difficult,” he said.

The Guards Brigade remains responsible for protecting the President and safeguarding critical national assets within the FCT and neighboring areas. The latest warning underscores the brigade’s unwavering resolve to eliminate criminal threats and ensure a safer Abuja in the coming year.