The Nigerian Army has achieved a significant peace milestone in Cross River State as dozens of Niger Delta militants voluntarily surrendered under the state government’s amnesty programme.
According to a statement issued on Friday by the Headquarters of the 13 Brigade, Nigerian Army, the surrender took place in the early hours of January 16, 2026, at Atimbo Rear Area, Operation OKWOK, in Akpabuyo Local Government Area.
The statement, signed by the Assistant Director of Army Public Relations, Major Yemi Sokoya, disclosed that the former militants emerged from their hideouts and laid down their weapons without resistance.
Army authorities revealed that the surrendered militants came from two separate camps. The first group, led by ThankGod Ebikontei, popularly known as Ayibanuagha, turned in 39 fighters. The second camp, headed by John Isaac, also known as Akpokolo, presented 41 fighters. This second group is widely referred to as the Akpokolo Marine Forces or Border Boys.
During the exercise, the militants handed over a large cache of arms and equipment, including three AK-47 rifles, two pump-action guns, one Mark 4 rifle, one G3 rifle, 12 single-barrel guns, 10 AK-47 magazines, three speedboats, four boat engines, one C4 explosive device, 19 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, and 84 DENGUN cartridges. Other recovered items included assorted military uniforms, tools, locally made weapons, and accessories.
Reacting to the development, the Commander of the 13 Brigade, Brigadier General P.O. Alimikhena, described the surrender as a major confidence-building achievement.
He said the decision of the militants to embrace peace reflects the effectiveness of sustained military operations, constructive dialogue, and strong collaboration between the Nigerian Army, the Cross River State Government, and other security agencies.
Alimikhena further assured that the Brigade would continue to maintain a secure environment while supporting lawful initiatives aimed at rehabilitating repentant youths and ensuring lasting peace across the state.
Following the completion of the amnesty process, the surrendered militants were handed over to the Cross River State Government’s Rapid Response Team and are currently undergoing profiling by the Department of State Services (DSS) at Muka Sam Hotel, Ikot Ansa, Calabar.
The Nigerian Army also praised the Cross River State Government, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Edet Otu, for its commitment to peace and security, noting that the state’s proactive engagement played a crucial role in the success of the programme.
The Army reaffirmed its resolve to consolidate the gains recorded and prevent a return to criminal activities, while urging members of the public to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information.
