By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its offensive against terrorists in Niger State, killing several fighters and disrupting planned attacks during coordinated air operations conducted between May 20 and 23, 2026.
The operations, carried out by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1, targeted terrorist hideouts and movement routes in Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas of the state.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said the missions were based on credible intelligence and executed with precision.
According to the statement, air interdiction strikes launched around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji on May 20 successfully neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their operational activities.
The operation was jointly executed with the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment.
The Air Force further disclosed that terrorists travelling on motorcycles and moving rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi were also tracked and eliminated on May 21.
The strikes, it said, destroyed the terrorists’ movement and escape capability.
On the same day, NAF aircraft provided close air support to troops battling terrorists at Tungan Makeri, helping security forces regain the upper hand during the encounter.
The statement added that further armed reconnaissance missions conducted over Dogon Dawa and nearby communities in Mariga LGA on May 23 led to the disruption of planned attacks on military positions.
“Terrorist elements observed attempting tactical movement within the area were swiftly acquired and engaged with precision strikes,” the statement said.
The Air Force said post-strike assessments confirmed that the operations significantly degraded the capabilities of the terrorists.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, praised the professionalism of the personnel involved and assured Nigerians that the NAF would continue aggressive intelligence-driven operations to restore peace in troubled areas.
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