Insecurity: NAF airstrikes kill ISWAP commanders, fighters in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has disclosed that the air components operating under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) in the North East conducted precision air interdiction (AI) that neutralised several high-value Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) commanders and fighters in Borno State.

This was contained in a statement made available to Defence Correspondents in Abuja on Monday by the Spokesperson of the Service, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.

The statement explained that the mission, which was executed on 27 July 2025, targeted ARINA WOJE, a notorious ISWAP enclave in the Southern Tumbuns of Borno State, known as a sanctuary for insurgent leaders.

According to it, “the strike followed a series of credible Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) sorties that confirmed the return of terrorist elements to the area after recent inter-factional clashes. ISR data revealed significant terrorist activity, including the movement of foot soldiers, reactivation of structures, and the concealment of possible command centres and logistics depots beneath dense foliage.

“Acting on credible intelligence, NAF air assets were dispatched to undertake a focused strike mission.

“Aircrew on arrival, acquired and prosecuted pre-selected targets using precision-guided munitions, achieving devastating effects. Preliminary battle damage assessment reveals the destruction of several structures housing key ISWAP leaders, fighters, and logistics storage facilities, effectively disrupting the group’s operational planning and resupply efforts in the region.”

It pointed out that the operation reflected the NAF’s continued resolve to dislodge terrorist elements, deny them freedom of movement, and support ground forces in restoring peace and stability across Nigeria.

It added that it also reinforced the value of intelligence-driven air power missions in modern counter-terrorism operations.

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