Operation Fansan Yamma says the 2026 rainy season is slowing military operations in Zamfara as flooded terrain restricts troop movement and aerial assaults on terrorists.

The commander of the Joint Task Force North-West, Operation Fansan Yamma, has disclosed that the ongoing rainy season is complicating military operations against terrorist groups in the northwest, with flooded and muddy terrain restricting the movement of heavy combat vehicles into remote areas where bandits have retreated.

Major-General W.B Idris made the disclosure on Thursday during an interactive session with defence correspondents in Gusau, the capital of Zamfara State.

Terrorists pushed off major roads, now targeting isolated farmers

Idris said months of aggressive kinetic operations, intelligence-led raids and area domination patrols have degraded terrorist capabilities along major road corridors, forcing criminal groups to fundamentally alter their tactics.

“Our troops have dominated virtually all the major roads across the theatre. Trunk A and Trunk B roads are well secured through sustained military presence, patrols and offensive operations,” he said.

He said between January and April 2026, Operation Fansan Yamma recorded consistent weekly results.

“During that period, we recorded an average weekly recovery of about five weapons and the neutralisation of at least 10 terrorists. The sustained pressure has forced them to modify their tactics and avoid direct confrontation with our troops,” Idris added.

The commander said the terrorists have since withdrawn into remote forests, rocky terrain and isolated settlements, exploiting vast geographical landscapes to evade military patrols.

“They have realised that the major roads are no longer safe for them. They now move deep into the hinterland, where they attack isolated farmers and vulnerable communities. When such incidents occur, it sometimes creates the impression that security forces are not present, whereas the reality is that these attacks happen in extremely remote locations,” he said.

Rainy season limiting operations

Idris was candid about the operational constraints the wet season has imposed on the military’s ability to pursue terrorists into their new hideouts.

“Our operational vehicles are heavy military platforms. During the rainy season, movement becomes extremely difficult because the terrain becomes soft and inaccessible. These are not vehicles that can easily traverse flooded or muddy routes leading into remote forests,” he explained.

He added that the weather is also grounding some aerial support.

“We rely significantly on air support for operations in difficult terrain. However, weather conditions during the rainy season can also limit aerial operations. Nevertheless, we continue to adapt and maximise every available opportunity to sustain pressure on terrorist groups.”

Despite the constraints, Idris was unequivocal about the military’s resolve.

“We are not relenting in our efforts. We shall continue to pursue terrorists wherever they are hiding, irrespective of the terrain or weather conditions.”