In a significant counter-terrorism operation, Nigeria’s security forces have successfully captured two top leaders of the Al-Qaeda-linked Ansaru group, authorities confirmed on Saturday.
At a press briefing in Abuja, National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, announced that a months-long, intelligence-led operation had led to the capture of Mahmud Muhammad Usman, known as Abu Bara’a, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, also called Mallam Mamuda. The operation, which took place between May and July 2025, was a coordinated effort between Nigerian security agencies, military, and intelligence services.
Abu Bara’a, referred to as the “Emir of Ansaru,” was responsible for overseeing the group’s sleeper cells throughout Nigeria. He is also believed to be behind numerous high-profile kidnappings and terrorist financing operations. His deputy, Mallam Mamuda, led the infamous “Mahmudawa” faction, primarily based around Kainji National Park and other forested areas. Mamuda had trained in Libya, specializing in weapons and improvised explosive devices (IED) under foreign jihadist instructors.
“These two men have been on Nigeria’s most-wanted list for years and are also wanted internationally for their involvement in numerous terrorist activities,” Mr Ribadu stated. He went on to detail the group’s violent history, including its links to major terrorist acts such as the 2022 Kuje prison break and the 2019 kidnapping of Alhaji Musa Umar Uba, Magajin Garin Daura.
Ansaru, which splintered from Boko Haram in 2012, has been responsible for numerous deadly attacks on civilians, security forces, and critical infrastructure. The group’s ties to Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM) have made it a persistent threat to Nigeria’s national security. Its recent operations also extended beyond Nigeria’s borders, with links to other terrorist factions in the Sahel region.
The capture of the two Ansaru leaders represents one of the most decisive blows to the group since its emergence. It has dismantled the group’s leadership structure, leaving it significantly weakened. Authorities are optimistic that the intelligence gathered from this operation will provide invaluable insights into Ansaru’s networks both in Nigeria and across the wider Sahel region.
Mr Ribadu credited President Bola Tinubu for his strategic support and leadership in the operation, as well as the unwavering efforts of the armed forces, intelligence agencies, and other stakeholders who played pivotal roles in bringing the terrorists to justice.
“This victory signals the beginning of the end of impunity for terrorist leaders in Nigeria,” said the NSA. “We will continue to pursue extremists with precision, resolve, and unwavering determination.”
The operation also yielded a wealth of intelligence, including digital materials and documents, which are currently undergoing forensic analysis. These findings are expected to reveal more about the group’s activities and the wider networks it was a part of.
In closing, Mr Ribadu urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and continue cooperating with security agencies, reminding the public that national security is a shared responsibility.
He expressed gratitude to the media for their support in the fight against terrorism and assured the public that Nigeria’s security forces would continue to work tirelessly to ensure the safety of all citizens.
