The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under the joint task force of Operation HADIN KAI, says it has achieved another operational breakthrough after carrying out a coordinated air interdiction at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Borno state.
In a statement on Saturday, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the success followed actionable multi-source intelligence confirming the presence of terrorists, their structures, and hidden logistics facilities in the location.
He explained that based on the intelligence gathered, NAF air platforms were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strike missions to engage 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 in part.
Reacting to the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the outcome underscored the NAF’s determination to dominate the airspace in support of joint military 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 added that the targeted terrorist structures were effectively struck and destroyed, limiting their operational capability, while a subsequent engagement neutralised armed elements seen converging on the area.
According to the CAS, follow-up advances by ground troops later confirmed the impact of the air strikes and validated the overall success of the joint air and land operation.
Reiterating the force’s stance, Air Marshal Aneke said NAF operations would remain sustained and intelligence-led.
“Our operations are carefully planned and intelligence-driven, ensuring maximum effect on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians. The Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure until terrorist networks are completely dismantled,” he added.