By Joyce Remi-Babayeju
The Director General of the National Orientation Agency, NOA, Mallam Issa-Onilu has disclosed that in a joint effort by security agencies—the Nigerian Army, Directorate of Security Services (DSS), the Police and the Nigeria Immigration Services, ( NIS)— recorded an increase in terrorist-related arrests of 33% , and an increase of 40% rescues in the month of October 2025, with a few casualties.
Issa-Onilu stated this at the November, NOA Monthly Joint Security Meeting Press Briefing on Monday at the agency’s office.
The NOA boss, while giving an outline of security successes in the period under review, stated that the arrests increase by 33% and 40% rescued due to the use of proactive human and digital intelligence, proof that security operations have shifted from reactive to preventive.
According to him, fatalities declined by 12%, revealing the effectiveness of joint operations and early warning systems.
Speaking on the gains recorded in the fight against insecurity by the security agencies, the DG said that 56 and 42 major arrests were made in October and September, respectively, resulting from a 33% increase in stronger intelligence coordination.
For the rescue of abducted victims, 27 victims were rescued in October instead of 19 in September 2025. A feat he ascribed to improved rapid response, especially in Kogi and Zamfara States, he hinted.
Part of the security success story is the seizure of arms & ammunition recorded high, with multiple caches recovered in N/W & S/E due to proactive interdictions.
Furthermore, fatalities in violent crimes witnessed a decline from 240 to 210, which further declined to 185, representing a 12% reduction month-to-month.
The month of October had seven incidents, while September had four, resulting from expanded collaboration with the Nigeria Immigration Service and the Department of Secret Services in cross border interventions.
Issa- Onilu reinstated that data driven collaboration and citizen intelligence are central to sustaining national peace and security.
“October 2025 marked another step forward in Nigeria’s collective journey toward safety and trust.:
“Together, through courage, collaboration, and communication, we are reclaiming public confidence in our institutions.”
“Together we build trust. Together we build peace. Together we build Nigeria,” he noted.
Furthermore, he acknowledged the sacrifices by the security forces against insecurity in the country.
