In Air Interdiction Operation, NAF Hits Terrorists in Timbuktu Triangle, Clears Way for Ground Troops

Linus Aleke in Abija

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under the Joint Task Force (JTF) of Operation Hadin Kai, has conducted a coordinated air interdiction operation at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle, Borno State.

The Director of Public Relations and Information of NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement issued yesterday, said the air interdiction successfully cleared the way for the ground troops.

Ejodame said the Air Component acted on actionable, multi-source intelligence confirming the presence of active terrorists, structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area.

He said the NAF air assets were employed in integrated surveillance and precision strike to engage identified targets.

According to him, the operation was deliberately designed to degrade terrorist capability, deny sanctuary, and shape the battlespace for ground forces, in strict adherence to established rules of engagement and the protection of non-combatants.

“The identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, denying the terrorists freedom of action, while a follow-up engagement neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location.

“Subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air strikes and validated the success of the joint air–land operation,” he said.

Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the success of the mission reflects the NAF’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint operations.

Aneke said the operation demonstrated the service’s unwavering commitment to delivering precise and decisive airpower in support of ground forces.

“We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistics wherever they seek to hide.

“Air operations will remain relentless and intelligence-driven.

“Our operations are carefully planned and intelligence-led, ensuring maximum effect on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.

“The Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure until terrorist networks are completely dismantled,” he said.

Anele said the operation underscored the NAF’s aggressive posture, precision employment of airpower, and unwavering commitment to sustained joint operations.

He added that the operations further highlighted its critical role in enabling ground forces to maintain momentum and deliver decisive effects against terrorist networks threatening lives, property, and Nigeria’s national security.