NAF launches major airstrikes as Security agencies intensify anti-terror operations across Nigeria

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its counter-terrorism and anti-banditry campaigns nationwide, launching a wave of precision airstrikes that eliminated scores of Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in the Mallam Fatori and Shuwaram areas of Borno State.

In a coordinated security push, operatives of the FCT Police Anti-Kidnapping Unit, in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS), local hunters, and vigilante groups, also began special patrols across forested border communities linking Bwari in Kaduna, Bwari in Niger, and Gwagwalada in Niger State to protect churches and residents.

However, while the security agencies strengthened operations in the north, gunmen reportedly abducted four nursing mothers at Yan Kwada village, Faruruwa community in Shanono Local Government Area of Kano State on Sunday night.

Meanwhile, Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has ordered a manhunt for gunmen responsible for a midnight attack in the Sarkin Noma community of Keana LGA, assuring that the perpetrators will face justice. His Kebbi State counterpart, Dr Nasir Idris, also declared that no part of Kebbi State is under bandit control.

Similarly, a violent clash between Boko Haram and ISWAP factions at Toumbun Gini, an island in Abadam LGA of Borno State, reportedly claimed over 100 lives.

According to the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the recent precision strikes were carried out on November 9, 2025, under “Operation Hadin Kai” and “Operation Fasan Yamma” to dismantle terrorist and criminal networks across Nigeria’s northern regions.

“In Borno State, NAF interdiction missions dealt a heavy blow to ISWAP elements entrenched in the Northern Tumbuns,” he said, noting that airstrikes targeted insurgent hideouts, logistics hubs, and weapon storage sites at Mallam Fatori and Shuwaram.

He added that air raids also hit bandit enclaves in Garin Dandi and Chigogo in Kwara State and Zango Hill in Kankara LGA, Katsina State, neutralizing several criminals. “Each mission reaffirms NAF’s resolve to deliver intelligence-driven airpower while safeguarding citizens and national security,” Ejodame stated.

In the Federal Capital Territory, police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh confirmed that the anti-kidnapping unit, supported by DSS and local hunters, had launched a dawn-to-dusk patrol to secure places of worship. The operation, she said, aims to “boost community confidence, deter criminal activities, and ensure that worshippers can observe religious activities without fear.”

She explained that the Commissioner of Police, CP Miller Dantawaye, ordered the patrols and the blocking of key routes often used by bandits. Church leaders were also advised to minimize late-night events and maintain close communication with law enforcement agencies.

In Kano, the chairman of Faruruwa community’s security committee, Yahaya Bagobiri, confirmed the abduction of four nursing mothers, saying the bandits discarded their babies before taking the women away. “We alerted security agencies before the attack, but they came late. This is happening despite the presence of military personnel in the area,” he lamented.

Bagobiri appealed to President Bola Tinubu and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to strengthen security presence in the region.

In Nasarawa, Governor Sule condemned the renewed violence in Keana and Lafia, describing it as a plot by “enemies of peace to destabilize the state.” He directed security agencies to arrest those responsible and urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement by providing useful information.

On his part, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris, speaking at a security summit organized by the Arewa Media Practitioners Forum, stated confidently that “no inch of Kebbi territory is under bandit control.” He credited security forces for pushing insurgents into neighboring states like Zamfara.

Also at the summit, Sultan of Sokoto, Mohammed Sa’ad Abubakar III, warned that insurgents are “monsters every region must unite to defeat,” while former Chief of Army Staff, General Abdurahman Dambazau, blamed rising insecurity on poverty, poor education, and inadequate healthcare.

In Borno, intelligence sources said ISWAP launched an offensive against the rival Boko Haram (JAS) faction using ten boats but suffered massive losses after falling into an ambush that left more than 100 fighters dead. Seven boats were seized, while three escaped.

Security analysts believe the infighting between the two terror groups presents a key opportunity for the Nigerian military to intensify pressure on both sides and reclaim strategic strongholds along the Lake Chad Basin.

Meanwhile, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Governors Forum has urged traditional rulers to invoke spiritual and cultural powers to complement the government’s fight against insecurity. Forum Chairman and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, made the call during a condolence visit to Niger State Governor Mohammed Umar Bago, urging monarchs to “consult the gods of the land” in defense of the nation.

Uzodimma also commended President Tinubu’s leadership and assured that governors would continue to support his efforts to restore peace and stability nationwide.