The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a heavy blow to terrorists in Borno State, delivering precision airstrikes that neutralised more than 20 fighters and destroyed a gun truck.
The air operations took place on November 25, 2024, near Kukawa as part of Operation Hadin Kai, a military campaign against insurgents in Nigeria’s northeast.
Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s spokesperson, confirmed the successful missions in a statement released on Wednesday.
“In the first mission, NAF fighter jets destroyed a gun truck and neutralized several fighters,” he announced.
He further revealed that a second operation was carried out to support ground troops under heavy attack.
“Our air assets provided close air support to repel an attack on our troops,” Akinboyewa explained.
The first mission targeted a gun truck positioned about five kilometers west of Kukawa.
Credible intelligence alerted the military to the terrorists’ movements, prompting swift action by NAF fighter jets.
The jets engaged the target with precision strikes, successfully destroying the vehicle and weakening the terrorists’ capabilities.
In a separate operation, ground troops called for urgent air support as they came under siege from terrorists riding motorcycles.
NAF air assets quickly responded and struck the attackers at multiple locations, forcing them into disarray.
“Our forces recovered over 20 abandoned motorcycles after the attack,” Akinboyewa added.
He confirmed that the military is now pursuing wounded and fleeing terrorists to prevent regrouping.
“The momentum is with us,” he declared.
The successful missions highlight the importance of air support in Nigeria’s fight against terrorism.
Akinboyewa assured the public that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to national security.
“The NAF remains dedicated to the collective effort to restore peace and security across the country,” he said.
“We will continue to provide effective airpower in support of our ground forces and other security agencies.”
These operations mark significant progress in the ongoing war against insurgency in Nigeria’s northeast.
The terrorists targeted in the recent airstrikes are believed to be part of a faction operating around Kukawa.
This area has long been a hotspot for insurgent activities due to its strategic location near Lake Chad.
The military’s latest success is expected to disrupt the terrorists’ plans and reduce their operational capacity in the region.
Residents of Kukawa and surrounding communities have expressed relief at the news of the airstrikes.
A local resident, who wished to remain anonymous, praised the military’s efforts.
“We are grateful for what the Air Force is doing. The terrorists have caused us so much pain,” he said.
Security experts have also lauded the precision and timeliness of the operations.
“This is a major victory for the Nigerian military,” said defense analyst Kabiru Umar.
“It shows that intelligence gathering and rapid response are improving.”
The ongoing Operation Hadin Kai has seen several successes in recent months.
Joint efforts by the Nigerian military and other security agencies have led to the capture and neutralization of numerous insurgents.
Despite these gains, the fight against terrorism remains a daunting challenge.
The insurgents continue to adapt their tactics, often targeting civilians and soft targets in rural areas.
The Nigerian government has reiterated its commitment to ending the insurgency and restoring peace to affected regions.
President Bola Tinubu recently commended the military for its bravery and dedication.
In a recent address, he stated, “We will not rest until every corner of Nigeria is safe for our people.”
The military’s success in Kukawa is expected to boost morale among troops and reassure citizens of the government’s resolve.
As the pursuit of fleeing terrorists continues, security agencies are urging residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities.
“The fight is not over, but we are making progress,” Akinboyewa concluded.
