The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out a major airstrike on a suspected terrorist stronghold in Katsina State, killing several fighters and destroying a key hideout used for operations.
The strike, which took place on May 1, targeted a location inside the Dan-Aji Forest in Faskari Local Government Area. The operation was conducted under the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma.
Details of the operation were made public on Sunday in Abuja in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the statement, the airstrike focused on a known logistics hub linked to a suspected terrorist leader identified as Abasu Aiki.
The location was believed to serve as a base for coordinating attacks and supplying fighters operating across several parts of the state, including Faskari, Kankara, and Funtua areas.
Ejodame said intelligence reports had revealed renewed terrorist activities in the area, prompting the Air Force to take action.
He explained that surveillance had confirmed the presence of armed fighters at the site before the strike was carried out.
The NAF spokesperson said air assets identified groups of armed men riding motorcycles and gathering within the enclave.
Based on this information, the military launched what it described as a “precision strike” on the location.
“NAF air assets identified armed terrorists on motorcycles alongside other fighters within the enclave and executed a coordinated strike,” Ejodame said.
He added that a post-strike assessment showed that several fighters were killed during the operation.
The strike also destroyed the logistics hub and other structures believed to be used by the group.
According to the Air Force, the attack triggered multiple explosions and fires within the area.
These secondary explosions are believed to have been caused by weapons and fuel stored at the site.
Ejodame said the destruction has further weakened the operational strength of the group, limiting their ability to carry out attacks.
“The strike triggered explosions and widespread fires, further degrading the operational capacity of the group,” he stated.
The NAF said the operation has significantly disrupted terrorist movement and supply routes in the area.
By targeting a logistics base, the military aims to cut off the flow of weapons, fuel, and other supplies needed for attacks.
The Air Force also reaffirmed its commitment to continuing operations aimed at eliminating terrorist safe havens across the country.
Katsina State is one of several states in north-west Nigeria affected by banditry and terrorist activities.
Armed groups in the region have been responsible for attacks on villages, kidnappings, and killings of civilians.
Forests such as the Dan-Aji Forest have often been used as hideouts by these groups due to their difficult terrain and limited security presence.
Over the years, the Nigerian military has carried out both ground and air operations to flush out these groups and restore peace.
The airstrike is part of the ongoing Operation Fansan Yamma, which focuses on tackling insecurity in the north-west.
The operation involves coordinated efforts between air and ground forces to identify and eliminate threats.
Military authorities say the goal is to dismantle terrorist networks, destroy their bases, and prevent them from regrouping.
The latest airstrike highlights the continued efforts by the Nigerian military to address insecurity in affected regions.
While such operations have recorded some successes, challenges remain due to the vast terrain and mobility of armed groups.
Residents in affected areas have often called for sustained military presence and improved intelligence gathering to prevent attacks.
There are also calls for more support for communities affected by violence, including displaced persons.
The Nigerian Air Force says it will continue to carry out targeted operations to ensure that terrorists are denied safe spaces to operate.
Ejodame noted that the latest strike demonstrates the military’s resolve to protect lives and property.
For residents of Katsina State, the operation may bring some relief, but many hope for lasting peace and an end to the cycle of violence.