The Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has said that the Armed Forces have successfully neutralised 20 commanders of bandit groups across the northern part of the country in the past year.

The Minister while giving an update on the deliverables of the defence ministry, also highlighted that so far, 4,641 kidnap victims has been rescued and 83,900 assorted ammunitions have been recovered.

In the Niger Delta, he noted that 245 captives have been released, 351 illegal oil production sites destroyed and 408 vehicles recovered from from criminals running illegal bunkering syndicates.

Mr Badaru also announced that the army is working closely with regional security agencies to improve the security situation within the nation’s borders, adding that the president has also supported troops to enhance their capacity through procurement and upgrades of equipment.

He highlighted the collaboration with over 50 companies in Nigeria in the production of weapons and other armour.

The minister pledged the unwavering commitment of the army in the fight against insurgency, and the protection of Nigerians. (Channels TV)