NAF Intensifies Air Operations to Target Terrorists and Bandits in the North‑West, Neutralizing Criminal Elements

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has stepped up its air campaign against terrorists and armed bandits in the North‑West, carrying out precision strikes on identified criminal hideouts while expanding intelligence, surveillance and armed reconnaissance missions to support ongoing joint military operations.

The operations were carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 on 18 and 19 June 2026, underscoring the NAF’s resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of movement and to strengthen security across the theatre of operations.

Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, said the sustained air missions were part of a broader effort to disrupt terrorist activities and degrade the operational capabilities of armed groups threatening peace and stability in the region.

“Acting on credible intelligence, NAF aircraft successfully engaged a confirmed terrorist stronghold within the Joint Operations Area, delivering precision strikes that disrupted the activities of criminal elements and significantly weakened their operational capacity,” Ejodame said.

In a separate intelligence‑led operation around Kidandan, NAF aircraft neutralised terrorists after positively identifying their movement within the area. Subsequent reconnaissance missions over Fatika and Sabuwa confirmed the absence of further terrorist activity, while continuous aerial surveillance was maintained in support of friendly ground forces and ongoing operations throughout the theatre.

Reaffirming the strategic importance of integrated military operations, Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke has consistently stated that “decisive air power delivers its greatest effect when seamlessly integrated with surface operations.”

In line with this operational philosophy, the Nigerian Air Force continues to deploy intelligence‑driven air power in close coordination with ground troops to neutralise terrorists, protect innocent civilians and restore lasting peace and security across the North‑West.

The NAF reiterated its commitment to sustaining the current operational momentum until terrorist and bandit networks operating within the region are decisively dismantled.