WorldStage– The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has conducted a series of precision airstrikes in the Sambisa Forest and surrounding areas in Borno State, neutralizing scores of terrorists and destroying key logistics facilities.
The strikes were disclosed in a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja by NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Confirming the strike, carried out on Monday, April 20, 2026, NAF said a series of precision airstrikes carried out by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI killed several terrorists in the Yuwe axis of Sambisa Forest, a known insurgent enclave in Nigeria’s North-East.
According to the statement, the operation was driven by credible intelligence, further validated through Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, which confirmed the presence of active terrorist elements operating from fortified structures and underground bunkers in the area.
NAF air assets subsequently engaged the identified targets using precision-guided munitions, resulting in the destruction of the structures, the neutralisation of multiple fighters, and the dismantling of key logistics facilities. Follow-up Battle Damage Assessment reports confirmed the effectiveness of the strikes.
The operations targeted insurgent structures, weapon storage sites, and hideouts, including ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) and Boko Haram elements within the Sambisa Forest.
Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) confirmed the destruction of enemy infrastructure and the neutralization of numerous militants, including fighters and commanders.
Ejodame noted that the sustained intensity of air operations in the region continues to weaken terrorist networks, forcing them into increasingly disorganised and reactive positions.
“The sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks, leaving them increasingly exposed and disrupted, with mounting pressure forcing them into desperate and reactive actions,” he said.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to maintaining relentless, intelligence-led operations against insurgent groups.
“We remain committed to the protection of our personnel, the security of our nation, and the safety of all citizens,” Aneke stated. “The NAF will continue to intensify precision engagements across the theatre, maintaining decisive operational pressure while adhering strictly to rules of engagement and minimising civilian harm.”
These strikes are part of an ongoing, intensified air campaign by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai to degrade terrorist capabilities and support ground troops in North-East Nigeria.
The NAF has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the momentum of these air operations until all terrorist elements are neutralized.
