KEY POINTS

• Generals Tsiga received liberation because of combine kinetic and non-kinetic military operations.
• The DHQ rejected all claims about ransom payment and stressed that military forces were responsible for the general’s liberation.
• The military seeks public backing to maintain the fight against terrorism alongside securing national security operations.

Defense Headquarters (DHQ) confirmed on Monday that military operations serving kinetic and non-kinetic functions delivered the successful rescue of Brigadier General Maharazu Tsiga who served as former National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) Director-General.

General Tsiga received full safety protection throughout every step of the mission that led to his successful recovery by military forces.

DHQ clarifies the details of the rescue operations

General Tsiga suffered his abduction in the initial moments of 6 February 2025 at Tsiga within Kafur District of Katsina State. After the kidnapping military personnel of the 17 Brigade started executing their search and rescue operations by searching hideouts throughout Kankara, Faskari, and Zamfara states.

Operations persisted through difficult conditions along with criminal blockage as military forces kept operating both on the ground and through the air.

DHQ clarifies that through their operations the military members rescued 84 abducted individuals as well as killing multiple terrorists. The intense operations were unable to locate General Tsiga because of his health condition which barred him from escaping.

Several captives got freedom during the operation even though Tsiga failed to escape. Barau Garba, the teacher held with him, along with other victims, was liberated by the operation and reconnected with their loved ones.

Response to criticism

The DHQ denied all allegations raised by retired Brigadier General Ismaila Abdullahi regarding military personnel paying ransom for Tsiga’s rescue because the operation stemmed entirely from military actions.

The DHQ officially stated that these claims damaged the vital dangerous military operations which fought terrorism while establishing peace in the area.

The Defence Headquarters declared its commitment to following every necessary measure for Nigerian citizens’ security and nationwide public protection. Through the DHQ the Nigerian military urged civilians to share valid intelligence information that would boost terrorist and criminal group investigations.