NAF Air Strikes Eliminate Terrorists, Foil Planned Attacks in Niger Communities
Oru Leonard
The Nigerian Air Force has announced major operational successes against terrorist elements following a series of intelligence-led air strikes carried out between May 20 and 23, 2026, in parts of Niger State.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the operations were conducted by the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 across Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas.
The statement disclosed that on May 20, following credible intelligence on the movement and gathering of terrorists around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi LGA, the Air Component, working alongside the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, carried out precision air interdiction strikes that neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their operational build-up.
It further stated that on May 21, terrorists travelling on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi were identified and engaged, leading to their elimination and the destruction of their movement and withdrawal capability.
On the same day, the Air Component also provided close air support to troops engaged in combat with terrorists at Tungan Makeri, successfully targeting the insurgents and restoring operational advantage to friendly forces.
In continuation of the offensive, armed reconnaissance missions were conducted on May 23 over Dogon Dawa and surrounding areas in Mariga LGA following reports of planned terrorist attacks on military positions.
According to the NAF, terrorist elements attempting tactical movements within the area were swiftly engaged with precision strikes, resulting in the neutralisation of a significant number of the fighters and the disruption of the planned attacks.
Post-strike assessments reportedly confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and limiting their freedom of movement within the affected areas.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and precision of the personnel involved in the operations, reaffirming the Air Force’s commitment to sustaining aggressive intelligence-driven operations against terrorist threats across the country.
He assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Air Force would continue working with other security agencies to protect lives, defend the nation, and restore lasting peace in troubled regions.
