The United States and the United Kingdom have applauded Nigeria following the capture of two of the country’s most wanted terrorists linked to the Ansaru network. The arrests of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, also called Mallam Mamuda, were carried out in a series of intelligence-driven operations between May and July. Both Western nations hailed the breakthrough on X, describing it as a major boost in the global fight against extremism.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has been widely credited with spearheading the mission, which experts say reflects the federal government’s renewed strategy in tackling insecurity. According to the presidency, the capture is part of a broader campaign that has dismantled terror cells, disrupted banditry operations, and restored calm in troubled regions across northern Nigeria.
The NSA’s office noted that significant progress has also been made in preventing major attacks, such as the Abuja-Kaduna train assault and the Kuje prison break. Security agencies under Ribadu’s coordination have also worked to secure highways, rescue abducted victims, and quell communal clashes in hotspots including Plateau and Southern Kaduna. These successes have contributed to improved economic activity, with oil production reportedly rising from below one million barrels per day to around 1.8 million barrels.
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in the North and the Federal Capital Territory welcomed the development, describing it as a turning point in Nigeria’s war against terrorism. The group praised Ribadu’s leadership and urged continued vigilance to consolidate the gains recorded so far. CAN also commended Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani for fostering inclusive governance and driving infrastructure projects, stressing the importance of equity in distribution to build trust and unity among citizens.
