The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched successful airstrikes that destroyed key Boko Haram hideouts in Borno State just days before the Eid-el-Kabir celebration.
The airstrikes, carried out by NAF fighter jets, hit terrorist camps in Tumbumma Baba and Chiralia, located in the Southern Tumbuns area of Borno. According to a statement released on Saturday by NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the operation was aimed at preventing planned attacks on civilians during the Muslim festive period.
The air force confirmed that the targeted locations were being used by Boko Haram insurgents to store weapons and coordinate attacks. The strikes led to the destruction of these facilities and the neutralisation of several terrorists.
“NAF aircraft targeted terrorist structures reportedly used for storage and coordination, delivering direct hits and crippling planned attacks aimed at disrupting Eid celebrations,” the statement read.
The military said Battle Damage Assessments showed that key logistics structures used by the terrorists were completely destroyed, adding that the strikes were carefully planned to avoid harm to innocent civilians.
This operation comes as part of increased security efforts in the North-East region, where Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgents have continued to carry out deadly attacks against communities and security forces.
Eid-el-Kabir, one of the most important Islamic festivals, often sees large gatherings and increased movement across the country, making it a potential target for terrorist attacks. In recent years, the Nigerian military has stepped up surveillance and operations during major religious holidays to prevent such incidents.
Air Commodore Gabkwet said the pre-emptive action demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to protecting lives and supporting national security.
“The NAF will continue to conduct both kinetic and non-kinetic operations to rid the country of terrorists and restore peace to affected areas,” he added.
The recent success has brought a sense of relief to residents of Borno and neighbouring communities, many of whom had feared attacks during the holiday season. Security has also been increased in key areas across the North-East to ensure a peaceful celebration.
Since the insurgency began over a decade ago, more than 35,000 people have been killed and over two million displaced in the North-East. The Nigerian military, supported by regional forces, has continued to push back against the insurgents through ground operations and aerial offensives.
With this latest strike, authorities hope to send a strong message to terrorist groups that any threats to national peace will be swiftly crushed.
