Sambisa Blitz: NAF Airstrikes Hit Boko Haram Strongholds, Dozens Reportedly Eliminated

Sambisa Blitz: NAF Airstrikes Hit Boko Haram Strongholds, Dozens Reportedly Eliminated

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says its fighter jets have carried out a series of precision strikes on suspected Boko Haram hideouts in the Yuwe axis of Sambisa Forest, Borno State, reportedly killing several insurgents and destroying key facilities.

In a statement issued on Tuesday in Maiduguri, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the operation formed part of ongoing offensives by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai aimed at weakening terrorist networks in the North-East.

Ejodame explained that the strikes followed actionable intelligence, which was further verified through Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The surveillance confirmed the presence of active insurgents occupying fortified positions, including bunkers and logistics hubs within the forest.

He noted that the aerial assault, which lasted about 30 minutes, involved the deployment of precision-guided munitions that successfully destroyed the identified targets. According to him, post-strike assessments indicated significant damage to terrorist infrastructure and the neutralisation of dozens of fighters.

“The sustained operational tempo continues to disrupt the terrorists’ capabilities, forcing them into disarray and limiting their freedom of movement,” Ejodame said, adding that the pressure has compelled insurgents in the area to adopt increasingly desperate tactics.

The statement also quoted the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, as reaffirming the Air Force’s determination to sustain intelligence-led operations until terrorist elements are completely dismantled.

“We remain resolute in safeguarding our personnel, protecting the nation, and ensuring the safety of citizens,” Aneke said. “Our operations will continue to be precise, deliberate, and in strict adherence to established rules of engagement, with utmost consideration for civilian safety.”

Military authorities say the latest strike is part of a broader campaign to degrade insurgent strongholds across Sambisa Forest and surrounding enclaves, long regarded as a key base of Boko Haram operations.