By Nkechi Eze
The Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has carried out fresh precision airstrikes against terrorist positions in the Jilli axis of Borno State as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle insurgent networks in Nigeria’s North-East.
The operation, conducted on April 11, 2026, saw fighter aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force launch follow-up mop-up strikes on identified terrorist locations after an earlier coordinated assault had significantly degraded insurgent positions in the area.
Details of the mission were disclosed in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who said the airstrikes formed part of a coordinated air-ground operation with troops of the Nigerian Army under Operation Hadin Kai.
Ejodame explained that the follow-up strikes were designed to target fleeing insurgents and remnants of terrorist groups attempting to regroup after the initial engagement that had already dealt a heavy blow to their positions within the Jilli axis.
He said the operation was carried out following credible intelligence obtained through close coordination with relevant stakeholders and verified by the appropriate operational command structure.
According to the Air Force spokesman, the intelligence-driven mission enabled air assets to accurately strike terrorist elements seeking to exploit the difficult terrain in the area while attempting to evade ground forces.
The latest operation comes amid intensified efforts by the military to track and neutralise terrorist fighters responsible for recent attacks on security personnel within the wider North-East theatre.
Ejodame noted that the successful execution of the follow-up strikes demonstrates the increasing effectiveness of joint-force operations that combine airpower with ground manoeuvres to deny insurgents freedom of movement.
He added that the sustained aerial pressure is aimed at preventing terrorists from reorganising or launching attacks on both military positions and civilian communities across the region.
The Air Force spokesman further stated that by conducting immediate mop-up operations after initial engagements, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai has continued to strengthen ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property while stabilising vulnerable communities in Borno State.
He reaffirmed that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to maintaining persistent surveillance, precision interdiction and rapid-response operations in support of national counter-terrorism objectives.
According to him, the continued operations also underscore the determination of the Armed Forces to restore lasting peace and security across the North-East while reassuring citizens of the military’s resolve to confront terrorist threats decisively.
