Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Structures in Lake Chad Region

Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Structures in Lake Chad Region
The operation weakened terrorist capacity and supported advancing ground troops.
Military authorities say air operations will remain relentless and intelligence driven.

Aircraft of the Nigerian Air Force operating under Operation Hadin Kai have carried out precision air strikes on terrorist targets in Abbajiri, within the Timbuktu Triangle area of Lake Chad, successfully paving the way for a coordinated ground assault by troops.

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EKO HOT BLOG reports that the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement, saying the operation was executed on January 8, 2026, following credible intelligence on terrorist activities in the area.

Ejodame said the air strikes were based on confirmed multi source intelligence that revealed the presence of terrorists, operational structures and hidden logistics facilities in Abbajiri.

“Acting on actionable, multi source intelligence that confirmed active terrorist presence, structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area, NAF air assets were employed in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles to engage identified targets,” he said.

According to him, the mission was carefully planned to weaken terrorist capabilities, deny them safe havens and prepare the terrain for advancing ground forces, while ensuring strict compliance with rules of engagement and civilian protection.

Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the success of the mission demonstrated the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to maintain air superiority in support of joint military operations.

“This operation demonstrates our 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,” Aneke stated.

He added that identified terrorist structures were destroyed during the strikes, while follow up engagements neutralised armed elements seen converging on the location.

Aneke noted that subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the air operation and validated the success of the joint air land campaign.

Reaffirming the force’s stance, he said air operations would remain relentless and intelligence driven until terrorist networks are completely dismantled.

“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 added.