By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed terrorist structures at Abbaga Jiri in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Borno State during an air operation conducted on January 8, 2026, under the Joint Task Force of Operation HADIN KAI.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, said the operation was based on actionable, multi-source intelligence confirming the presence of terrorists, their structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area. NAF air assets were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strikes against the identified targets.
“The operation was deliberately designed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary, and shape the battlespace for ground forces, all in strict adherence to established rules of engagement and with full protection of non-combatants,” Ejodame stated.
He added that the targeted structures were decisively destroyed, restricting the terrorists’ freedom of action. A follow-up engagement neutralized armed elements attempting to converge on the location. Subsequent ground troop advances confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes and validated the success of the joint air land operation.
Commenting on the mission, Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said, “The success of this operation reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.
He added that, It demonstrates the 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 attempt to hide.
Air Marshal Aneke emphasised 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 stated.
The operation highlights the NAF’s aggressive stance, precision employment of airpower, and commitment to sustained joint operations. It also underscores the Service’s critical role in enabling ground forces to maintain momentum and deliver decisive effects against terrorist networks threatening lives, property, and Nigeria’s national security.
