The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a heavy blow to terrorists in Borno State, neutralising more than 15 fighters and destroying their hideout during an air raid on Sambisa Forest.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, confirmed the successful mission on Thursday. He disclosed that the air interdiction was executed on September 3, 2025, under Operation Hadin Kai, a joint task force operation aimed at eradicating insurgency in the North-East.
“The strike targeted an enclave west of Zuwa, identified through intelligence and surveillance as a hideout for fighters and commanders linked to recent attacks around Bitta, in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State,” Ejodame explained.
He further said the operation not only eliminated terrorists but also demolished the infrastructure used as a base for their operations.
Military analysts highlight that Sambisa Forest has been a central hub for Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) since the outbreak of insurgency in 2009.
The Nigerian Armed Forces have launched several campaigns in the area in recent years. Despite these efforts, insurgents have continuously regrouped, exploiting the dense forest terrain for cover.
Security experts view this latest operation as another significant step toward dismantling the terrorists’ operational capacity.