The Nigerian Air Force has intensified its offensive against terrorists and armed bandits in the North-West, carrying out a series of precision air strikes that destroyed criminal strongholds and neutralised suspected fighters in ongoing operations across the region.
The operations, conducted under the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1, took place on June 18 and 19, 2026, as part of efforts to support ground troops and degrade the operational capabilities of terrorist groups and bandit networks.
According to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the missions were based on credible intelligence and targeted identified criminal enclaves within the Joint Operations Area.
The statement said NAF aircraft successfully struck a confirmed terrorist stronghold, disrupting the activities of criminal elements and weakening their operational capacity.
“In a separate intelligence-led mission around Kidandan, NAF aircraft successfully neutralised terrorists after positively identifying their movement within the area,” the statement noted.
The Air Force added that follow-up reconnaissance missions over Fatika and Sabuwa revealed no further terrorist activity, while aerial surveillance operations continued in support of friendly ground forces carrying out operations across the theatre.
The NAF said the sustained operations underscore its determination to deny terrorists and armed bandits freedom of action while enhancing security in the North-West.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the importance of integrating air and ground operations in the fight against insecurity.
According to the statement, Aneke has consistently maintained that “decisive air power delivers its greatest effect when seamlessly integrated with surface operations.”
The Air Force said it would continue to employ intelligence-driven air power in close coordination with ground forces to neutralise terrorists, protect civilians and restore lasting peace across affected communities.
“The NAF remains resolute in sustaining the operational momentum until terrorist and bandit networks are decisively dismantled,” the statement added.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA is one of the military’s major counter-terrorism and anti-banditry operations aimed at tackling insecurity across Nigeria’s North-West region, where armed groups have been responsible for attacks on communities, kidnappings and other violent crimes.
