Written by
Ishioma Appiah-Yeboah
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says its Air Component under Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 has recorded major operational successes against terrorist groups in parts of Niger State following a series of intelligence-led air strikes conducted between May 20 and 23, 2026.
According to the NAF, the coordinated operations targeted terrorist hideouts and movement corridors across Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas, resulting in the neutralisation of several fighters and the disruption of planned attacks on security forces.
In a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Air Force disclosed that the first operation was carried out on May 20 after credible intelligence revealed the movement and gathering of suspected terrorists around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi Local Government Area.
The statement noted that the Air Component, working in collaboration with the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, executed precision air interdiction strikes that successfully destroyed the terrorists’ operational build-up in the area.
A day later, on May 21, air surveillance reportedly tracked armed terrorists travelling on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi. The targets were subsequently engaged in coordinated strikes that eliminated several of the terrorists and crippled their mobility and escape routes.
The Air Force also provided close air support to ground troops during an encounter with terrorists at Tungan Makeri, helping security personnel regain operational advantage during the confrontation.
Continuing the offensive campaign, the NAF said armed reconnaissance missions were conducted on May 23 over Dogon Dawa and nearby communities in Mariga Local Government Area following intelligence reports of planned attacks on military positions.
According to the statement, terrorist elements attempting tactical movement within the area were swiftly identified and hit with precision strikes, leading to the neutralisation of a significant number of fighters and the disruption of the planned assaults.
“Post-strike assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying them freedom of action within the general area,” the statement added.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and precision of the personnel involved in the operations, while reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to sustaining aggressive intelligence-driven missions against terrorist groups across the country.
He assured Nigerians that the NAF, in collaboration with other security agencies, would continue efforts aimed at protecting lives, securing communities and restoring lasting peace in troubled regions.