Eight high-profile terrorist leaders operating in Nigeria’s troubled North-West have surrendered their weapons and released 16 abducted civilians in a significant step towards peace, the Nigerian Army has confirmed.
In a statement published across its official social media channels, the Army attributed the breakthrough to an ongoing surrender and reintegration initiative under Operation Fasan Yamma, conducted with the support of local authorities and community leaders.
The individuals—named as Kamulu Buzaru, Manore, Nagwaggo, Lalbi, Alhaji Sani, Dogo Baidu, Dogo Nahalle, and Abdulkadir Black—surrendered in Katsina State’s Dan Musa Local Government Area on 14 June 2025. The army confirmed that all hostages released comprised seven women and nine children.
The Army’s statement noted: “The individuals expressed their commitment to renounce banditry and embrace peaceful coexistence. The weapons they surrendered have been taken into safe custody.”
The group has also committed to releasing all remaining hostages in their possession by 15 June.
Local authorities have taken custody of the freed captives, while military forces continue to monitor the region closely to prevent any resurgence of violence.
The development comes amid renewed efforts by the Nigerian government to offer amnesty and reintegration opportunities to insurgents willing to abandon violence. Though the strategy remains controversial, officials argue it could provide a viable path to long-term peace in Nigeria’s conflict-affected north-western states.
Security experts caution, however, that effective reintegration, justice for victims, and sustained pressure on non-compliant groups remain critical to ensuring lasting stability.
