FG defends Jilli airstrike, calls it precision counter-terrorism operation

The Federal Government has described the recent airstrike in the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area, Borno State, as a precision counter-terrorism operation carried out by the Nigerian Air Force under Operation HADIN KAI, insisting that the mission was not indiscriminate.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, the government said the area has long been classified as a high-risk security zone with restrictions on civilian movement due to sustained insurgent activity.

The statement explained that the operation was based on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance which identified the Jilli axis, also locally referred to as “Kasu Daulaye” (the terrorists’ market), as an enclave used by Boko Haram and ISWAP for logistics, levy collection, and operational coordination.

It added that the intelligence assessment was reinforced following the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu, who allegedly confessed to moving funds and supplies between Jilli and other locations, highlighting the exploitation of civilians by insurgent networks.

The government also cited confirmation from Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who reportedly stated that Jilli and Gazabure markets were closed five years ago due to insurgent control, describing the area as a known terrorist hub.

Authorities said the Bindul–Jilli axis has remained a major insurgent corridor, referencing previous attacks and IED incidents linked to Boko Haram and ISWAP elements operating in the region.

According to the statement, the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with the Nigerian Army, conducted sustained surveillance before executing the strike to disrupt terrorist supply chains and degrade operational capacity.

The Federal Government announced that a full and independent investigation has been ordered into the incident to review intelligence gathering, targeting procedures, and execution, with a view to ensuring accountability where necessary.

It added that operational safeguards would be strengthened, while reaffirming that the protection of civilian lives remains a core priority of the Armed Forces.

The government also disclosed ongoing coordination with the Borno and Yobe State Governments, as well as NEMA and SEMA, to provide humanitarian assistance to affected communities.

Citizens were urged to comply strictly with security advisories and avoid restricted areas, while the media was advised to ensure responsible reporting on security matters to prevent misinformation.

Reaffirming its position, the government stressed that press freedom must be balanced with national security responsibility, noting the importance of verified reporting in conflict situations.

It further highlighted recent progress in counter-terrorism efforts, including the conviction of 386 suspects from over 500 terrorism-related cases at the Federal High Court in Abuja, involving Boko Haram and ISWAP members.

The government also referenced the publication of a list of 48 individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing, insisting that ongoing measures show there is “no safe haven” for terrorism sponsors in Nigeria.