Operation HADIN KAI records fresh success as air and ground forces neutralise insurgent targets
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded another operational breakthrough under Operation HADIN KAI, following a coordinated air interdiction against terrorist elements at Abbaga Jiri, within the Timbuktu Triangle of Borno State.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation was carried out after multi-source intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists, fortified structures, and hidden logistics facilities in the area.
According to the statement, NAF air assets were deployed for integrated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, followed by precision air strikes on identified targets.
“The operation was carefully planned to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them safe haven, and shape the battlespace for advancing ground forces, while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and the protection of non-combatants,” the statement said.
Terrorist Structures Destroyed
The air strikes reportedly destroyed identified terrorist structures, while a follow-up engagement targeted armed fighters 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.
Reacting to the development, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar [or Sunday Aneke, as stated], said the mission underscored the Air Force’s resolve to deliver decisive airpower in support of troops on the ground.
“This operation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to precise and decisive airpower. We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and access to logistics wherever they attempt to regroup,” the CAS said.
He further stressed that NAF operations remain intelligence-driven and civilian-focused, noting that sustained pressure will continue until terrorist networks are fully dismantled.
“Our missions are carefully planned and intelligence-led to maximise impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent lives,” he added.
Part of Sustained Offensive
The operation in Borno follows a similar air campaign conducted in December 2025, when NAF carried out two precision strikes against bandit enclaves in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State.
Those strikes, executed under the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma, targeted Turba Hill and a camp linked to a notorious bandit leader identified as Kachalla Dogo Sule.
Air Commodore Ejodame said the Zamfara operations were also based on credible, multi-source intelligence, reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to coordinated, intelligence-backed operations against security threats across the country.
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