Military Launches Major Operation at Kainji Park to Hunt Terrorists

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has deployed troops, drones, and advanced equipment to Kainji Lake National Park as part of a major effort to root out any potential terrorist presence in the area.

In a recent statement, the DHQ revealed that operatives have been extensively patrolling the park for the past six weeks, searching for suspected terrorists. This initiative follows a report by the Clingendael Institute, a Dutch think tank, which in June indicated that Islamist militants from the Sahel region had entered Nigeria through the Benin Republic border. These militants were reportedly using Kebbi State and Kainji National Park as their operational base.

Maj. Gen. Edward Buba, Director of Defence Media Operations, told our correspondent on Friday that despite thorough searches, no terrorists were found in the park. “In response to allegations of terrorists hiding in Kainji Lake National Park, our forces have been actively combing the area using patrols, drones, and aerial surveillance provided by the Nigerian Air Force over the past six weeks. We have also conducted joint operations with the DSS, local vigilantes, and park rangers,” Buba explained.

He added that operations extended to the border with the Benin Republic, with no signs of terrorist activity detected. There is speculation that the terrorists may be crossing the border to evade detection by the troops.

Buba emphasized that adjustments are being made to prevent the park from being used as a hiding place by terrorists, and the operation is ongoing.