In a major breakthrough for Nigeria’s fight against terrorism, security forces have arrested two of Ansaru’s most-wanted commanders, Mahmud Muhammad Usman and Mahmud al-Nigeri. The duo, notorious for leading deadly operations across the country, were captured during a carefully coordinated multi-agency operation carried out between May and July. National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, who disclosed the arrests on Saturday, described it as a “decisive security milestone.”
Ansaru, a Boko Haram splinter group with ties to al-Qaeda, has been behind some of the most daring attacks in recent history. Usman and al-Nigeri were fingered in the July 2022 Kuje prison jailbreak that freed dozens of Boko Haram inmates, as well as the 2013 assault on a uranium facility in Niger. Authorities say the pair jointly masterminded multiple assaults on civilians, security forces, and key national infrastructure.
Beyond just nabbing the suspects, security agents also seized critical digital evidence now undergoing forensic analysis. Ribadu stressed that the intelligence gathered could help dismantle more of Ansaru’s network and prevent future attacks. He called it “the most decisive blow against Ansaru since its inception,” with hopes it will cripple the group’s command structure.
Experts, however, warn that the arrests must be matched with strong follow-up action. Security analyst Oluwole Ojewale noted that the true impact depends on how effectively the intelligence is used to disrupt ongoing terror activities. Nigeria still grapples with Boko Haram, its splinter factions, and bandit groups destabilizing parts of the northwest and central regions.
Meanwhile, the United States has approved a $346 million arms deal to strengthen Nigeria’s counter-insurgency drive. With the arrests coming at this critical time, many believe the synergy of new intelligence and upgraded firepower could significantly shift momentum in Nigeria’s long battle against terrorism.
