The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has launched a series of precision airstrikes targeting terrorist and bandit hideouts across Borno, Zamfara, Katsina, and Niger States, killing several Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) fighters and armed bandit leaders in renewed counterterrorism operations.
According to military sources, the coordinated air raids, conducted between November 6 and 10, 2025, were part of ongoing joint operations under Operation Hadin Kai and Operation Whirl Punch aimed at dismantling terrorist cells and cutting off their logistics networks in northern Nigeria.
In Borno State, NAF aircraft carried out multiple strikes on ISWAP camps located in the fringes of the Lake Chad Basin, particularly near Tumbun Fulani and Abadam. Intelligence reports confirmed that several high-profile ISWAP commanders were neutralized, while their vehicles, motorcycles, and makeshift armories were destroyed in the operation.
A senior defense official disclosed that the airstrikes were based on credible intelligence gathered from surveillance missions and local informants. “Our surveillance identified heavy terrorist movements and logistic convoys, prompting immediate engagement. The strikes achieved the desired effects neutralizing key targets and disrupting enemy operations,” the source said.
In Zamfara and Katsina States, air components of Operation Hadarin Daji bombarded bandit enclaves around Dansadau and Dumburum forests, killing scores of armed criminals and destroying camps used for coordinating kidnappings and cattle rustling.
Similarly, in Niger State, NAF jets under Operation Whirl Punch conducted successful strikes on identified bandit camps in Shiroro and Munya local government areas, where armed groups loyal to notorious warlords were reported to have regrouped after previous military assaults.
Residents in affected areas confirmed hearing heavy bombardments followed by reduced bandit activities. “For the first time in months, we have slept peacefully without gunfire,” said one resident of Shiroro, who praised the military for its renewed offensive.
NAF spokesperson Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, in a statement, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to sustaining aerial operations until terrorists and bandits are completely neutralized. He stated, “The Nigerian Air Force will continue to deploy precision strikes and intelligence-led missions in support of ground forces, ensuring that no part of the country remains a safe haven for criminal elements.”
Security analysts described the latest operations as a “critical morale boost” for both troops and civilians, coming at a time when public confidence in security efforts has been waning. They, however, urged the government to complement air operations with ground stabilization measures such as improved policing and humanitarian relief in liberated areas.
The recent NAF airstrikes mark another significant milestone in Nigeria’s fight against insurgency and banditry. With sustained momentum, security agencies aim to reclaim control of volatile regions and restore peace to communities long terrorized by armed groups.
