By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has recorded major operational successes against terrorist elements in Niger State following a series of intelligence-driven precision air strikes conducted between 20 and 23 May 2026 across Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operations were executed by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 in collaboration with ground forces and targeted terrorist movements, hideouts and planned attack routes.
Air Commodore Ejodame disclosed that on 20 May 2026, following credible intelligence on the movement and convergence of terrorists around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi Local Government Area, the Air Component, working alongside the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, carried out precision air interdiction strikes that neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their operational build-up in the area.
He further stated that on 21 May 2026, terrorists moving on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi were positively identified and engaged by NAF aircraft, leading to their neutralisation and the destruction of their mobility and withdrawal capability.
The statement added that on the same day, the Air Component also provided close air support to troops engaged in combat with terrorists at Tungan Makeri, successfully striking the hostile elements and restoring operational advantage to friendly forces.
In continuation of the sustained offensive campaign, Air Commodore Ejodame noted that armed reconnaissance missions conducted on 23 May 2026 over Dogon Dawa and adjoining communities in Mariga Local Government Area followed intelligence reports indicating plans by terrorists to attack troop positions.
During the mission, terrorist elements observed attempting tactical movement within the area were swiftly acquired and engaged with precision strikes, resulting in the neutralisation of a significant number of the insurgents and the disruption of the planned attacks.
According to the statement, post-strike battle damage assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the operations in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying them freedom of action within the affected areas.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to national security, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and precision displayed by the personnel involved in the operations.
Air Marshal Aneke assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Air Force would continue to sustain aggressive intelligence-led air operations in collaboration with other security agencies to neutralise terrorist threats, protect innocent lives and restore lasting peace across troubled regions of the country.
