The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has eliminated more than 15 terrorists during an airstrike on a hideout in the Sambisa Forest area of Borno State.
In a statement on Thursday, NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said the operation was conducted on September 3, 2025, by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai.
According to Ejodame, the strike hit an enclave west of Zuwa, which intelligence and surveillance identified as a base for fighters and commanders involved in recent attacks near Bitta, in Gwoza Local Government Area. He explained that the raid destroyed insurgent structures and significantly reduced their operational capacity.
“The Nigerian Air Force, through the Air Component under the Joint Task Force North-East of Operation Hadin Kai, has once again demonstrated its precision, reach, and resolve in the fight against terrorism. On 3 September 2025, a carefully planned and executed air interdiction mission struck a newly identified terrorist enclave west of Zuwa in the Sambisa general area.
“Acting on credible intelligence and confirmatory surveillance, the mission targeted hideouts harbouring fighters and commanders responsible for recent hostilities around Bitta. The strikes proved devastating, neutralising over 15 terrorists and demolishing key structures critical to their operations.
“The Nigerian Air Force continues to stand as a symbol of vigilance, professionalism, and decisive airpower in defence of national security. Every successful strike brings Nigeria one step closer to lasting peace,” the statement read.
The Sambisa Forest has long served as a stronghold for Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters since the insurgency began in 2009. The Nigerian military has conducted several operations in the region to weaken the groups’ presence.
The latest offensive comes as counterterrorism efforts intensify in the North-East, where insurgency and banditry have displaced millions and disrupted livelihoods.
Advertisement
