National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu has announced the arrest of two top leaders of the Ansaru terrorist group, describing it as a major breakthrough in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism
At a press briefing on recent security developments, Ribadu identified the suspects as Mahmud Muhammad Usman, also known as Abu Bara’a, the group’s self-styled emir, and Mahmud al-Nigeri, also known as Mallam Mamuda, his deputy and proclaimed chief of staff.
According to Ribadu, Abu Bara coordinated multiple terrorist sleeper cells across Nigeria and masterminded high-profile kidnappings and armed robberies used to finance insurgency.
Mamuda, he added, trained in Libya between 2013 and 2015 under foreign jihadist instructors from Egypt, Tunisia, and Algeria, specialising in weapons handling and IED fabrication.
The NSA said both men have long been on Nigeria’s most-wanted list for leading attacks on civilians, security forces, and critical infrastructure. Their operations reportedly included the 2022 Kuje jailbreak, the assault on the Niger uranium facility, the 2013 kidnapping of French engineer Francis Collomp in Katsina, and the 2019 abduction of Alhaji Musa Umar Uba, Magajin Garin Daura. They were also linked to the abduction of the Emir of Wawa and maintain active ties with jihadist groups in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso.
Ribadu described their capture as “one of the most significant achievements to date in our effort to rid Nigeria of terrorism,” saying it effectively dismantles Ansaru’s central command and paves the way for its total annihilation.
The briefing, attended by the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff, the Inspector General of Police, and the Minister of Information and National Orientation, highlighted how the arrests represent a decisive blow against the group.
Ansaru first appeared in January 2012 in Kano as a splinter faction from Boko Haram, styling itself as a “humane alternative” but soon launching attacks on Nigerian security operatives, civilian communities, and government facilities. The group openly displayed the logo of Al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQIM), aligning itself ideologically and operationally with global jihadist movements.
Over the years, Ansaru established sleeper cells in major northern cities and forest enclaves, particularly around Kainji National Park in Niger and Kwara States and extending into the Benin Republic.
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Good job by the NSA
Who are their sponsors?