NAF airstrikes hit terrorists in Timbuktu Triangle, pave way for ground offensive
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under Operation Hadin Kai, has carried out a coordinated air interdiction operation against terrorist elements at Abbaga Jiri in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Borno State, successfully clearing the way for advancing ground troops.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation was based on actionable intelligence from multiple sources, which confirmed the presence of terrorists, their structures and concealed logistics facilities in the area.
According to Ejodame, NAF air assets were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strike missions, engaging identified targets with accuracy and in line with established rules of engagement to protect non-combatants.
“The identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, denying the terrorists freedom of action. A follow-up strike also neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location,” he said.
He added that subsequent advances by ground forces into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes and validated the success of the joint air–land operation.
Reacting to the development, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, said the successful mission underscored the NAF’s determination to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.
He noted that the operation reflected the service’s commitment to delivering precise, intelligence-driven airpower to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary and logistics.
“Air operations will remain relentless and intelligence-led. Our missions are carefully planned to achieve maximum impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians,” the air chief said.
He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force would sustain pressure on terrorist networks until they are completely dismantled, reaffirming its critical role in supporting ground forces to deliver decisive outcomes against threats to national security.
