Nigerian Air Force Storms Sambisa Forest, Eliminates Terrorists, Destroys Bunkers

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has eliminated several terrorist fighters and flattened fortified bunkers in a precision strike on the Yuwe axis of the Sambisa Forest.

The air interdiction, conducted on Sunday April 19, was executed by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, following credible intelligence that confirmed the presence of active terrorist elements concealed within hardened bunkers and structures in the area.

According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the targets were identified through coordinated Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, enabling precise engagement with minimal collateral impact.

NAF air assets subsequently struck the identified locations with precision-guided munitions, destroying the fortified positions, neutralising multiple terrorists, and eliminating key logistics facilities.

A follow-up Battle Damage Assessment confirmed the effectiveness of the operation.

The Air Force noted that the sustained tempo of air operations continues to degrade terrorist networks across the theatre, leaving insurgent elements increasingly exposed and forcing them into reactive and fragmented movements.

Reaffirming the Service’s operational resolve, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the NAF would maintain relentless, intelligence-driven air campaigns until all terrorist elements are completely neutralised.

“We will sustain precision engagements across the theatre while adhering strictly to rules of engagement and minimising civilian harm,” he stated.

The latest strike underscores the growing reliance on air power in Nigeria’s counter-insurgency strategy, with coordinated ISR and precision targeting playing a critical role in dismantling terrorist enclaves and disrupting their supply chains across the North-East.