Paragraph 1: The Nigerian Air Force’s Counterterrorism Offensive
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its counterterrorism operations in the northeastern region of the country, specifically targeting insurgent strongholds in Borno State. On March 26, 2025, NAF fighter jets conducted a series of decisive airstrikes in multiple waves, focusing on Warawara (near Wajiroko) and Chinene in the Mandara Mountains, known areas of terrorist activity. These operations were part of the ongoing Operation Hadin Kai, aimed at combating insurgency and restoring peace to the region. The airstrikes were meticulously planned and executed based on intelligence gathered through extensive surveillance and reconnaissance missions.
Paragraph 2: Targeting Terrorist Logistics and IED Operations
Prior to the airstrikes, NAF’s Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations revealed a group of terrorists stockpiling logistics and planting Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) around Wajiroko. This intelligence prompted the NAF to track the terrorists’ movement, which led to the discovery of a concealed location housing a gun truck, ammunition stockpiles, and fuel reserves. This information provided a crucial target for the subsequent airstrikes. The NAF recognized the importance of disrupting the terrorists’ logistical capabilities and IED operations to hinder their ability to carry out attacks and maintain their presence in the region.
Paragraph 3: Precision Airstrikes and Destruction of Terrorist Assets
The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai launched multiple waves of air interdiction (AI) missions against the identified terrorist targets. The first wave of airstrikes targeted the terrorists’ logistics hub, successfully destroying gun trucks and critical supplies. A second wave followed, employing sustained rocket and cannon attacks to ensure the complete destruction of the remaining terrorist assets at the location. The precision of the strikes minimized the risk of collateral damage while maximizing the impact on the insurgents’ resources and capabilities.
Paragraph 4: Neutralizing Insurgents and Destroying Hideouts in Chinene
Later on March 26, 2025, NAF aircraft shifted their focus to another terrorist enclave at Chinene in the Mandara Mountains. Intelligence reports indicated that insurgents had relocated to this area following an earlier air raid on Degbewa on March 16, 2025. Overhead reconnaissance confirmed the presence of active structures in Chinene, indicating the presence of terrorists. The NAF then carried out an airstrike on the confirmed terrorist hideouts, setting them ablaze. Fleeing insurgents were subsequently engaged and neutralized by the NAF fighter jets, further crippling their operational capacity.
Paragraph 5: Battle Damage Assessment and Operational Impact
Post-strike Battle Damage Assessment (BDA) and corroborating intelligence confirmed the successful neutralization of a significant number of terrorist fighters. The airstrikes also resulted in the destruction of four terrorist gun trucks, two Toyota Hilux vehicles often used by the insurgents for mobility and attacks, and several makeshift shelters. The destruction of these assets, coupled with the elimination of numerous fighters, significantly degraded the insurgents’ operational capabilities and forced them to abandon their positions. This disruption further hampered their ability to regroup and launch attacks.
Paragraph 6: NAF’s Continued Commitment to Counterterrorism Operations
The successful air interdiction missions conducted on March 26, 2025, demonstrate the NAF’s unwavering commitment to neutralizing insurgents, disrupting their logistics networks, and denying them safe havens within Nigeria. By applying sustained pressure on terrorist elements, the NAF aims to dismantle their operations and restore peace and security to the affected regions. The NAF continues to play a crucial role in the fight against terrorism in Nigeria, leveraging its air power to target insurgent groups and protect the nation’s citizens. These operations represent a significant step towards achieving long-term stability and security in the northeast.
