The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its counter-insurgency operations in Borno State, killing no fewer than 592 terrorists and destroying 372 enemy assets in the last eight months — a record that has already surpassed the force’s total gains in 2024.
NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday, quoting the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, during a courtesy visit to Governor Babagana Zulum in Maiduguri.
Abubakar said the sustained aerial offensive had eliminated 206 technical vehicles and 166 logistics hubs deep in hostile territory.
The precision strikes, according to him, were carried out in areas stretching from Gonori to Rann, Dikwa to Damboa, and Azir to Mallam Fatori, both day and night.
He attributed the success to the deployment of advanced platforms, including the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for precision and night missions, Mi-171 helicopters for medical evacuation and logistics, and enhanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance systems for 24-hour target tracking.
The CAS revealed that a new Mi-35 gunship would soon join the fleet to provide intensified close-air support for ground troops.
“Backed by an upgraded fleet and precision night-strike capabilities, NAF aircraft executed 798 combat sorties and clocked over 1,500 operational flight hours under the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai,” Abubakar said.
“This year, our air war is faster, sharper, and more surgical. We are taking out high-value targets, crippling their logistics, and hunting down every cell that threatens the peace of the North-East.”
He commended what he described as the “Borno Model” — a blend of community-driven non-kinetic measures and decisive military action — as a proven approach in the counter-insurgency campaign.
During his visit, the CAS inspected facilities at the NAF base, met with aircrew and ground personnel, and received operational briefings, reaffirming the force’s commitment to precision air power, intelligence-led missions, and inter-agency collaboration.
Governor Zulum, in his response, lauded the Air Force for its sustained air support, which he said had degraded terrorist capabilities and safeguarded communities.
“Your operations have saved countless lives and given our people the confidence to begin rebuilding. The people of Borno recognise your sacrifices and stand firmly behind you,” the governor said.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
