The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under the joint task force of Operation HADIN KAI, has recorded another major operational breakthrough following a coordinated air interdiction mission against terrorist enclaves in AbbagaJiri, located within the Timbuktu Triangle, on January 8, 2026.
The operation was carried out after actionable, multi-source intelligence confirmed the presence of terrorists, fortified structures, and concealed logistics facilities within the area. Acting swiftly on the intelligence, NAF deployed air assets in integrated surveillance and precision strike roles, successfully engaging identified targets.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the air interdiction was described as a carefully planned mission aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities, denying them safe havens, and shaping the operational environment to enable the effective advance of ground forces.
Ejodame noted that the strikes were executed in strict compliance with established rules of engagement, with deliberate measures taken to ensure the protection of non-combatants and surrounding civilian settlements.
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Reacting to the success of the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the operation underscored the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to air dominance in support of joint military operations across the North-East.
According to him, the successful neutralisation of terrorist positions in AbbagaJiri has significantly improved operational conditions for advancing ground troops in the Timbuktu Triangle, a region long known as a stronghold for insurgent activities.
“This mission reflects our resolve to deliver precise, intelligence-driven, and decisive airpower in support of ground forces. The Nigerian Air Force remains fully committed to denying terrorists freedom of action wherever they operate,” Air Marshal Aneke stated.
He further reaffirmed that NAF air operations would remain relentless, proactive, and intelligence-led, as part of ongoing efforts to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and security in affected regions.
The latest operation forms part of sustained air-ground coordination under Operation HADIN KAI, aimed at flushing out insurgents, disrupting their logistics chains, and enabling ground forces to consolidate gains across the North-East theatre.
