NAF Air Interdiction Kills ISWAP Commander, Eight Other Extremists in Borno

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) announced that its air component, as part of Operation Hadin Kai in Borno State, carried out a targeted air interdiction, resulting in the deaths of a key ISWAP commander and eight additional extremist fighters. These individuals were reportedly instrumental in facilitating the movement and protection of high-ranking ISWAP members.

Despite ISWAP's persistent attacks on civilian targets across Borno and neighboring North-East states, the NAF has consistently defended communities and military installations, ultimately leading to the surrender of multiple terrorists and their families.

The operation was executed following reliable intelligence gathered on the movements of suspected terrorists within the Sambisa Forest area. Acting upon this intelligence, the NAF deployed a Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) for persistent Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR). This enabled the tracking of a group of terrorists as they progressed toward a suspected hideout.

Upon confirming the target, the NAF aircraft executed a precise engagement, leading to significant damage within the targeted compound. Subsequent intelligence revealed that nine ISWAP fighters were killed, with several more wounded. Among those confirmed neutralized was Abu Khalid Al Muhajir, a prominent ISWAP commander known for providing security escorts to senior group members.

Air Commodore Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, emphasized the operational setback this represents for ISWAP. His elimination is particularly significant due to his knowledge of routes, terrain, and tactical movements connecting major terrorist strongholds within the Sambisa Forest and surrounding regions.

Ejodame also noted that some of the neutralized terrorists were believed to be linked to recent attacks on Nigerian troops along the Bita–Yamtage axis in Gwoza Local Government Area. This success highlights the NAF's growing proficiency in intelligence-driven air operations, particularly the integration of persistent ISR and precision strike capabilities to preemptively detect, track, and neutralize terrorist elements before they can regroup or pose a threat to friendly forces and civilian populations.

Beyond the immediate loss of life, the operation is anticipated to disrupt ISWAP's leadership protection mechanisms, hinder the movement of high-value personnel, and impede the coordination of terrorist activities across their enclaves. The Nigerian Air Force, according to Ejodame, will continue to sustain intelligence-led and precision air operations, working in close coordination with surface forces.

This concerted effort aims to degrade terrorist capabilities, disrupt their freedom of movement, and contribute to a safer environment for affected communities throughout the North-East region.