Fire From The Sky: NAF Jets Bombard Terrorist Strongholds In Lake Chad

The Director of Public Relations and Information of the NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed this in a statement, explaining that the operation followed a carefully planned air interdiction mission conducted on January 8, 2026.

According to Ejodame, the strikes were based on credible, multi-source intelligence that confirmed the presence of terrorists, their structures, and hidden logistics hubs in the area. NAF air assets were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strike missions to engage the identified targets.

He said the operation was designed to weaken terrorist capabilities, deny them safe havens, and shape the battlefield in preparation for advancing ground forces, while strictly observing rules of engagement and ensuring the protection of civilians.

Commenting on the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, said the outcome demonstrated the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to maintain air dominance in support of joint military operations.

“This mission underscores our commitment to delivering accurate and decisive airpower to support ground troops. We will continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, sanctuary, and logistical support wherever they attempt to hide,” Aneke said.

He added that the identified terrorist facilities were successfully targeted and destroyed, restricting the group’s operational freedom. A follow-up strike also neutralised armed fighters seen converging on the location.

Ground forces who later advanced into the area confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes, validating the success of the joint air and land operation.

Reaffirming the NAF’s stance, Aneke noted that air operations would remain relentless and intelligence-driven, ensuring maximum impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians.

He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force would sustain pressure until terrorist networks are fully dismantled, highlighting the Service’s aggressive posture, precision use of airpower, and vital role in supporting ground troops to achieve decisive results against threats to Nigeria’s national security.