NIGERIA: NAF Airstrike Destroys Terrorist Enclave in Lake Chad Basin

By Utebor Paul, Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a significant blow to terrorist elements in the Lake Chad Basin, following a successful airstrike in Jubillaram, a notorious hideout in the Tumbuns area.

The operation, carried out under Operation Hadin Kai on November 23, 2024, targeted key structures used by insurgents for food storage and as a haven for their commanders and fighters.

Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, revealed that the airstrike was prompted by intelligence linking the enclave to recent terrorist attacks, including an assault on troops in Kareto on November 16, 2024.

“This strategic location, identified through meticulous intelligence efforts, served as a critical food storage site and a sanctuary for terrorist commanders and fighters,” Akinboyewa said.

The air interdiction mission, executed by NAF fighter jets, destroyed structures used as storage facilities and neutralized a large number of terrorists. Mop-up operations with cannons ensured the elimination of fleeing insurgents, according to Akinboyewa.

The strike was preceded by extensive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions over several days, which confirmed the presence of active terrorist structures concealed under dense vegetation.

Akinboyewa noted that the operation not only disrupted the insurgents’ logistics but also significantly reduced their capacity to carry out future attacks.

“The destruction of the terrorist enclave, including food storage facilities, severely disrupted their logistical operations. The neutralization of a significant number of fighters diminished their capacity to launch future attacks,” he said.

The NAF spokesperson added that the mission highlights the Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding the nation and supporting ground forces in counterterrorism efforts.

“This mission demonstrates the NAF’s unwavering commitment to defending our nation and people, acting singly and supporting surface forces in counterterrorism operations. The NAF will sustain these robust independent and joint operations until all enemies of Nigeria’s prosperity and wellbeing are brought to justice,” Akinboyewa stated.