By Harriet Tornguvan
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its air campaign against insurgents in the North-East, carrying out a precision strike that eliminated several terrorists hiding in the Yuwe axis of the Sambisa Forest.
The air operation, conducted on April 19, 2026, was executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI following credible intelligence reports, supported by Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), which confirmed the presence of terrorist elements within fortified structures and bunkers in the area.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF air assets engaged the identified targets with precision-guided munitions, successfully destroying the structures, neutralising multiple fighters, and dismantling key logistics facilities.
Subsequent Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the effectiveness of the strike, indicating significant disruption to the operational capabilities of the террорист groups in the Sambisa enclave.
The Air Force noted that the sustained tempo of air operations has continued to degrade terrorist networks across the theatre, leaving them increasingly vulnerable and forcing them into reactive and desperate actions.
Reaffirming the Service’s commitment, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, stated that the NAF would maintain relentless, intelligence-driven air operations until all terrorist elements are neutralised.
“We remain committed to the protection of our personnel, the security of our nation, and the safety of all citizens,” he said.
The NAF also emphasised that its operations are conducted in strict adherence to established rules of engagement, with deliberate efforts to minimise civilian casualties while sustaining decisive pressure on insurgent groups.
The latest strike underscores ongoing efforts by the Armed Forces of Nigeria to consolidate gains in the fight against insurgency and restore lasting peace to the North-East region.
