The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under the joint task force Operation HADIN KAI, has recorded another operational breakthrough with a successful air interdiction mission at Abbaga Jiri in the Timbuktu Triangle, Borno State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation followed credible multi-source intelligence confirming the presence of terrorists, their structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area.
According to him, NAF air assets were subsequently deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strikes on the identified targets.
“The operation was deliberately designed to degrade terrorist capability, deny sanctuary, and shape the battlespace for ground forces, in strict adherence to established rules of engagement and the protection of non-combatants,” the statement said.
Reacting to the development, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the outcome underscored the Air Force’s determination to dominate the airspace in support of joint operations.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to delivering precise and decisive airpower in support of ground forces. We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistics wherever they seek to hide,” Aneke said.
He disclosed that terrorist structures identified during the mission were “decisively engaged and destroyed,” while a follow-up strike neutralised armed elements seen 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,” the CAS added.
Reaffirming the NAF’s operational posture, Air Marshal Aneke stressed that air operations would 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.
