NAF airstrikes decimate terrorist hideouts in Sambisa Forest

By Johnson Arua

Several terrorists have been killed following targeted airstrikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in the Yuwe axis of the Sambisa Forest, North-East Nigeria.

The Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed on Tuesday that the operation was part of sustained offensive efforts against terrorist elements in the region.

According to him, the strikes were carried out after credible intelligence, supported by Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), confirmed the presence of terrorists operating from fortified structures and bunkers within the area.

He explained that NAF aircraft deployed precision-guided munitions to engage the targets, destroying the structures, neutralising several fighters, and eliminating key logistics facilities.

Subsequent battle damage assessments confirmed the success of the operation.

Ejodame noted that the intensified air campaign has continued to weaken terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly vulnerable and forcing them into disorganised and reactive movements.

Reacting to the development, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, commended the troops for the successful mission and reiterated the force’s commitment to sustained operations.

He assured that the NAF would continue intelligence-driven airstrikes until terrorist elements are fully neutralised, while maintaining strict adherence to rules of engagement and minimising civilian harm.

The latest operation follows earlier successful air interdictions in Borno State, including strikes in the Azir and Musarram areas where over 40 terrorists were reportedly eliminated.

Ejodame added that during a previous mission on January 15 in the Tumbuns general area, NAF aircraft targeted terrorists assembling on canoes to launch attacks along the Baga and Fish Dam axis.

The strikes disrupted their activities, scattering the fighters and significantly reducing their operational capacity.

The air operations were conducted under the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, with feedback from ground troops and local sources indicating a notable decline in terrorist presence and a gradual return of calm in affected communities.