By Nkechi Eze
In a renewed offensive against insurgent elements in Nigeria’s North-East, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under Operation HADIN KAI, carried out precision air strikes on Saturday, 6 July 2025, targeting entrenched Boko Haram strongholds in the Mandara Mountains of Borno State.
According to a statement released by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the high-impact strikes focused on two major locations Wa Jahode and Loghperenlong regarded as fortified enclaves of the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram. These mountain-top hideouts, positioned along the Nigeria-Cameroon border, have in recent months witnessed a resurgence in terrorist activity, including a suspected build-up of logistics and the presence of senior insurgent commanders.
The air raids followed intelligence-led surveillance and reconnaissance missions which confirmed suspicious activity in the targeted areas. “Clusters of structures fitted with solar panels, black flags, and fortified compounds were identified clear signs of terrorist occupation and preparations for coordinated attacks,” the NAF spokesperson revealed.
Acting on this intelligence, NAF deployed its strike aircraft to execute a series of coordinated air interdictions. The strikes successfully destroyed several high-value targets including logistics warehouses, command centres, and defensive shelters within the insurgents’ encampments. Multiple terrorists were reportedly neutralised during the operation, significantly disrupting the group’s operational planning and logistics capabilities.
Air Commodore Ejodame described the mission as a strategic success that dealt a major blow to the terrorists’ ability to conduct future offensives, stating that, “The destruction of key infrastructure within these enclaves is a critical step in degrading the operational strength of Boko Haram elements in the region.”
The Mandara Mountains have historically served as a natural fortress for insurgent groups due to their rugged terrain, remote location, and proximity to international borders. The renewed activity by Boko Haram in the area had prompted growing concern among security forces and local communities alike.
The Nigerian Air Force, through its continued involvement in Operation HADIN KAI, reiterated its commitment to intensifying the campaign against insurgents and restoring lasting peace and security across the North-East. The latest air strikes, officials said, underscore a proactive and intelligence-driven approach to counter-terrorism and national defence.
“The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in its mission to dismantle terrorist networks and ensure that no part of our country remains a safe haven for enemies of peace,” the statement concluded.
