The Nigerian Air Force has launched a powerful air campaign in Borno State that reportedly led to the death of numerous Boko Haram fighters. The early morning airstrikes, carried out by fighter jets under Operation Hadin Kai, took place in Bita, a community known to be a hiding place for the insurgents in Nigeria’s troubled North-East.
In a statement issued on Friday, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, shared details of the operation. He noted that the attack was carefully coordinated and aimed at Boko Haram fighters who were seen escaping from earlier ground operations.
“The Nigerian Air Force through the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, has recorded a major operational success against Boko Haram terrorists,” the statement reads.
According to NAF, the mission was carried out before dawn and used intelligence reports to guide the fighter jets to the exact locations of the fleeing insurgents. Once confirmed, the jets launched precision strikes on the targets. Officials described the outcome as one of the most serious setbacks for Boko Haram in recent months.
“The highly coordinated operation, executed under the cover of darkness, represents a major leap in ongoing efforts to dismantle the operational capabilities of terrorist elements undermining national security in the North East,” the statement added.
Following the airstrikes, military ground troops quickly moved into the area to secure the location and search for more threats. They are currently involved in what the military calls “clearance and exploitation” operations to ensure no hiding insurgents remain.
The Air Force also noted that it remains fully committed to protecting the country from all forms of security threats. “The NAF wishes to reassure Nigerians of its unwavering commitment to defending the nation’s territorial integrity and protecting law-abiding citizens. All necessary measures are being taken to ensure that terrorist elements have no safe haven anywhere within the country.”
