The Nigerian Air Force has once again flexed its aerial muscle in the troubled Timbuktu Triangle of Borno, unleashing a coordinated air interdiction that cracked open terrorist hideouts and paved the way for advancing ground forces.
Operating under the joint task force of Operation Hadin Kai, NAF warplanes struck at Abbaga Jiri, a known terrorist enclave, turning what had been a haven for insurgents into hostile ground for criminal elements.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the precision air operation effectively softened the terrain and cleared the path for troops on the ground.
According to him, the Air Component swung into action after receiving actionable intelligence from multiple sources, which confirmed the presence of terrorists, their structures and carefully concealed logistics hubs in the area.
Ejodame explained that NAF air assets were deployed in a blend of surveillance and precision strike missions, striking identified targets with surgical accuracy.
He noted that the mission was carefully crafted to weaken terrorist capacity, shut down their safe havens and shape the battlefield in favour of ground forces, while strictly observing rules of engagement and safeguarding civilians.
“The Identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, denying the terrorists freedom of action, while a follow-up engagement neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location.
“Subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air strikes and validated the success of the joint air–land operation,” he said.
Reacting to the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the successful strike underscored the Air Force’s determination to dominate the skies in support of joint military operations.
Aneke described the mission as a clear demonstration of the service’s firm resolve to deliver timely, precise and decisive airpower in backing troops on the ground.
“We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistics wherever they seek to hide.
“Air operations will remain relentless and intelligence-driven.
“Our operations are carefully planned and intelligence-led, ensuring maximum effect on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.
“The Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure until terrorist networks are completely dismantled,” he said.
He added that the operation highlighted the NAF’s aggressive stance, pinpoint use of airpower and unwavering commitment to sustained joint offensives, stressing that air support remains critical in helping ground forces keep their foot on the pedal against terrorist threats to lives, property and national security.
