The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its aircraft have successfully carried out airstrikes on terrorist targets at Abbagajiri in the Timbuktu Triangle area of Lake Chad, clearing the way for ground forces to advance.
This is contained in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Ejodame said the airstrikes were conducted on Jan. 8, 2026, by NAF aircraft operating under the Joint Task Force of Operation Hadin Kai.
According to him, the operation was based on actionable, multi-source intelligence which confirmed the presence of terrorists, fortified structures and concealed logistics facilities in the area.
He explained that NAF air assets were deployed in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles to engage the identified targets.
“The operation was deliberately designed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary and shape the battlespace for ground forces, in strict adherence to established rules of engagement and the protection of non-combatants,” Ejodame said.
Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the successful mission underscored the NAF’s resolve to dominate the air domain in support of joint 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 said.
Ejodame added that the identified terrorist structures were decisively engaged and destroyed, while a follow-up strike neutralised armed elements observed converging on the location.
He said subsequent advances by ground troops into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes and validated the success of the joint air and land operation.
Reaffirming the NAF’s posture, Aneke said air operations would remain relentless and intelligence-driven.
“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 said.