ByUriel Ihotu| Abuja
In a major breakthrough in the ongoing counter-insurgency operations in the North-east, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed a major terrorist training facility in the Lake Chad region and foiled imminent attacks on several Borno State communities.
The successful air interdiction, carried out by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai on June 9, 2025, targeted a terrorist enclave in Bukar Meram, located on the southern flank of Lake Chad in Borno State. The airstrike followed credible intelligence and resulted in the neutralization of several terrorists, destruction of key logistics infrastructure, including weapons storage sites, supply vehicles, and makeshift shelters.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters NAF, Air Commodore Edward Ehimen Ejodame, the air operation also disrupted planned terrorist attacks on Marte and Monguno communities.
“Battle Damage Assessment confirmed that the precision strikes successfully disrupted imminent threats, further reinforcing the Nigerian Air Force’s proactive approach in safeguarding civilian lives and strategic locations,” Ejodame said.
The NAF reiterated its resolve to maintain pressure on terrorist factions and ensure the restoration of peace and stability in the North-east.
Ground Troops Eliminate Boko Haram Commander, Dozens of Others
In a related development, troops of Operation Hadin Kai, with air support, eliminated a notorious Boko Haram/ISWAP commander, Malam Jidda, during a joint offensive in Ngazalgana, Gujba Local Government Area of Yobe State.
According to Captain Reuben Kovangiya, Acting Deputy Director of Army Public Relations, the late terrorist leader, who held sway as the Ameer of Ngorgore and Malumti villages, was killed during a direct engagement with troops.
“Troops came into contact with the terrorists during a coordinated operation, engaging them with superior firepower. Malam Jidda was neutralised, while others escaped with gunshot wounds,” Kovangiya disclosed.
Further offensives in the Timbuktu Triangle and the Mallamfatori area in Abadam Local Government resulted in the elimination of additional terrorists and recovery of arms.
Seized Items from the Operations Include:
Several AK-47 rifles and magazines
Motorcycles used by the insurgents
Rocket-Propelled Grenade (RPG) tubes
Hand grenades and handheld radios
Large quantities of ammunition
The Nigerian military emphasized that the renewed offensives, integrating both air and ground components, underscore the ongoing momentum in dismantling the operational capacity of Boko Haram and ISWAP factions.
“Operation Hadin Kai remains committed to the total defeat of terrorist elements and the restoration of lasting peace in affected communities,” Kovangiya concluded
