By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has neutralised several key Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters, including individuals linked to the group’s security structure and leadership council, in a precision air strike in the Lake Chad region.
The operation was conducted on October 19, 2026, under the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI, as part of sustained efforts to degrade terrorist networks, disrupt their logistics and improve security in Nigeria’s North-East.
According to an official statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, preliminary post-strike assessments indicated that prominent ISWAP figures, including JINDULLAH and ABUL KISSA, were among those neutralised.
The statement identified JINDULLAH as the group’s Chief Security Guard and a confidant of Abu Saleem, while ABUL KISSA was described as a member of the ISWAP Shura Council.
The air strike also destroyed logistical assets, including boat engines and motorcycles, believed to have supported the movement and operational activities of the terrorist group.
The NAF said the operation demonstrated its continued commitment to intelligence-led precision strikes against terrorist enclaves concealed in difficult terrain.
It added that the neutralisation of key operatives and destruction of critical logistical resources would undermine ISWAP’s operational capabilities and constrain its ability to coordinate attacks and threaten vulnerable communities.
Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the Air Force’s resolve to sustain decisive air operations against terrorist networks in support of ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability across the country.
The NAF also reiterated its commitment to working with sister Services and other security agencies to consolidate operational gains, protect vulnerable communities and advance efforts towards lasting peace and security in the North-East.
