The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has scored a major victory against banditry in Niger State with precision airstrikes that dismantled a logistics base and neutralized scores of armed fighters in Alawa Forest, Shiroro Local Government Area.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, described the operation as a strategic offensive under the framework of Operation Fansan Yamma.
The assault, conducted over three days, was codenamed “Konan Daji” and targeted bandits linked to a string of violent attacks in the region.
A Response to Carnage
“This operation was necessitated by credible intelligence and aerial surveillance that confirmed an influx of armed terrorists into Alawa Forest,” said AVM Akinboyewa.
The group was reportedly involved in the December 19, 2024, twin improvised explosive device (IED) attacks in Bassa, Shiroro LGA, which claimed several lives and left communities shaken.
“To degrade their capabilities and secure the area, the air component launched a sustained air interdiction operation. This marked a decisive step toward uprooting criminal elements from the forest,” he added.
Precision and Coordination
The offensive was characterized by precision and meticulous planning. Fighter jets executed coordinated airstrikes on key targets within the forest.
“Upon arrival, the jets swiftly engaged the identified locations with precision strikes, neutralizing numerous armed fighters and destroying their logistics base,” AVM Akinboyewa disclosed.
He highlighted the significance of secondary explosions recorded during the mission, signaling the destruction of stockpiled weapons and ammunition.
Banditry and Insecurity in Niger
Banditry has plagued Niger State for years, with armed groups orchestrating attacks that have displaced residents, disrupted livelihoods, and strained security efforts.
The Alawa Forest, due to its dense terrain, has served as a notorious hideout for these criminals. Over time, they have entrenched themselves in the region, staging attacks and evading capture.
The Shiroro area has been particularly hard-hit, with bandits targeting communities, kidnapping residents, and attacking infrastructure. The December 2024 bombings in Bassa underscored the escalating threat, forcing security agencies to escalate their response.
A Victory for NAF and the Nation
The success of Operation Konan Daji represents a significant breakthrough in the fight against banditry. AVM Akinboyewa described it as “a major achievement for NAF in its efforts to combat terrorism and insecurity in the region.”
The air force’s collaboration with ground troops ensured a seamless operation, with efforts continuing to consolidate gains and prevent a resurgence.
“Our sustained efforts are geared toward eliminating all criminal elements from Alawa Forest and surrounding areas, ensuring lasting peace and security for communities in Niger and beyond,” Akinboyewa affirmed.
Civilian Relief and Confidence
The impact of the operation has extended beyond the battlefield. Communities in Niger, particularly those near Alawa Forest, have expressed relief at the air force’s decisive action.
“We have suffered for too long at the hands of these criminals,” said a local resident, who chose to remain anonymous. “This operation gives us hope that peace will return to our land.”
Security experts have lauded NAF’s use of precision airstrikes, noting their effectiveness in minimizing collateral damage while targeting high-value assets.
The Road Ahead
Despite the success, security analysts warn against complacency. While the offensive has disrupted the bandits’ operations, there is a need for sustained vigilance and follow-up efforts to prevent regrouping.
The military’s success also highlights the importance of multi-agency collaboration and intelligence-sharing in tackling insecurity.
As communities in Niger breathe a sigh of relief, the operation underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to its mission.
“The safety of our citizens remains our priority,” said AVM Akinboyewa. “We will not rest until the threat of terrorism and banditry is completely eradicated.”
