The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out a fresh air strike on a suspected terrorist hideout in Borno State, destroying key structures believed to support insurgent activities in the area.
The operation, which took place on April 27, targeted Guduf, a location in the Mandara Mountains known for its difficult terrain and history of insurgent presence. The development was made public in a statement released on April 28 through the official communication channels of the Air Force.
According to the statement, the strike was based on credible intelligence gathered over time and confirmed through surveillance missions. These efforts identified active structures and logistics points used by terrorists to coordinate movements and plan attacks.
The Mandara Mountains, which stretch along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, have long served as a hiding place for insurgent groups due to their rugged landscape and limited access. Security experts say the area provides natural cover, making it easier for armed groups to evade ground troops and launch attacks on nearby communities.
NAF spokesman, Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation involved a coordinated deployment of air assets aimed at dismantling the operational base of the terrorists.
“NAF platforms engaged and neutralised hostile elements and their infrastructure with precision, while maintaining strict adherence to rules of engagement,” he said.
He explained that the targets included structures believed to be used for planning attacks and storing supplies. By destroying these facilities, the Air Force aimed to weaken the operational strength of the insurgents and limit their ability to carry out further attacks.
Although the exact number of casualties was not disclosed, the Air Force maintained that several hostile elements were neutralised during the strike. It added that the mission was conducted carefully to avoid civilian casualties and reduce environmental damage.
Military authorities have repeatedly stressed the importance of precision in air operations, especially in areas where civilian populations may be present. In recent years, the Nigerian military has faced criticism over accidental civilian harm, leading to stricter guidelines and improved surveillance before strikes are approved.
The latest operation forms part of ongoing military efforts under Operation HADIN KAI, the main campaign against insurgency in the North-East region.
Operation HADIN KAI was launched to strengthen the fight against terrorist groups, including Boko Haram and its splinter factions. The operation combines air and ground forces to target insurgent strongholds, disrupt supply chains, and restore stability to affected communities.
Borno State has been at the centre of the insurgency for over a decade. The conflict has led to the loss of thousands of lives and displaced millions of people, while also destroying homes, schools, and critical infrastructure.
Despite significant gains by the military in recent years, pockets of insurgents remain active in remote areas such as the Sambisa Forest and the Mandara Mountains. These groups often rely on hidden camps and supply routes to sustain their operations.
However, they also note that air operations alone are not enough to completely end the insurgency. Sustained ground operations, intelligence sharing, and community support are needed to achieve lasting peace in the region.
Residents in parts of Borno have continued to express cautious optimism as military operations intensify. While many welcome the destruction of terrorist camps, they also hope for improved security that will allow displaced persons to return home safely.
The Nigerian Air Force, in its statement, reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the country’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of citizens. It said operations would continue as long as threats persist.
“The NAF remains resolute in sustaining pressure on all threats to national security and will continue to conduct operations aimed at restoring peace and stability,” the statement noted.
The military also called on members of the public to support ongoing efforts by providing useful information that could help security agencies track down insurgents.
As the fight against insurgency continues, the latest strike in the Mandara Mountains highlights the ongoing challenges in securing Nigeria’s North-East, as well as the determination of the armed forces to confront the threat.