Aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) operating under Operation Hadin Kai have launched successful airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Abbajiri, located within the Timbuktu Triangle of the Lake Chad region.
The precision bombardment, carried out on January 8, 2026, paved the way for a coordinated ground assault by Nigerian troops, significantly weakening terrorist positions in the area.
Confirming the operation in a statement, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the strikes were executed based on credible intelligence gathered from multiple sources.
According to him, intelligence reports confirmed the presence of active terrorists, key structures, and hidden logistics facilities within the targeted locations. As a result, NAF air assets were deployed for surveillance and precision strikes aimed at neutralising the threats.
Ejodame noted that the mission was carefully planned to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them safe havens, and shape the battlefield for advancing ground forces, while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and ensuring civilian protection.
Speaking on the success of the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the operation reflects the Air Force’s determination to dominate the airspace in support of joint military operations.
He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to delivering accurate and decisive airpower to deny terrorists freedom of movement, shelter, and logistical support wherever they operate.
Air Marshal Aneke revealed that identified terrorist structures were successfully destroyed, while follow-up strikes neutralised armed fighters who attempted to regroup at the location. Subsequent ground troop advances further confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes.
Reaffirming the NAF’s stance, the Air Chief stated that air operations would continue to be intelligence-driven, relentless, and carefully executed to maximise impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.
He added that the Nigerian Air Force will sustain pressure on terrorist networks until they are completely dismantled, underscoring the service’s critical role in protecting lives, property, and Nigeria’s national security.