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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has eliminated over 40 militants through synchronized close air support and air interception missions in the Azir and Musarram regions of Borno, hindering planned assaults and strengthening current land operations.

This is mentioned in a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Sunday in Abuja.

Ejodame stated that the operations took place on January 15 and 16 by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, based on actionable intelligence and with close collaboration with frontline troops.

He mentioned that the NAF aircraft quickly reacted to an emergency call at Azir during the early hours of January 16, where soldiers were confronting terrorists who were retreating from the location.

He stated that additional scans identified terrorist groups trying to reorganize under nearby trees, leading to accurate and consecutive air strikes that eliminated several of them.

Post-strike evaluation confirmed there were no additional threats, while input from frontline soldiers, local officials, and community members suggested a major reduction in terrorist activity and the restoration of a sense of peace.

Earlier on January 15, NAF air forces conducted an effective aerial interception in Musarram within the Tumbuns region following intelligence reports of terrorists gathering on canoes to initiate assaults along the Baga and Fish Dam corridor.

Upon arrival, the aircraft spotted roughly 10 canoes and more than 40 suspected militants, who were conducting several passes, causing confusion.

“Some parts of the group were pursued and eliminated, while those who regrouped at a gathering point were also confronted, successfully breaking up the terrorist cluster,” he stated.

In response, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, emphasized the NAF’s dedication to delivering prompt and effective aerial assistance to land troops.

Aneke stated that the operations highlighted the success of intelligence-driven air power and effective cooperation between air and ground forces in limiting terrorists’ mobility.

He pledged to maintain continuous pressure on extremist groups as the Nigerian Armed Forces work to weaken their strength and bring stability to impacted regions.