The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully carried out a series of precision airstrikes that neutralised numerous terrorists in Niger State, as part of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1.
The targeted operations were conducted between June 24 and 26, 2025, in close coordination with ground forces, aiming to dismantle terrorist networks responsible for recent violent attacks in the region.
In a statement released Friday in Abuja, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Ehimen Ejodame, confirmed the operation’s success.
He said the strikes were based on “credible and actionable intelligence” that identified terrorist hideouts and logistical bases in the Kakihun and Kumbashi communities.
“Swiftly deploying air assets, the Air Component executed multiple waves of precision strikes that neutralised scores of terrorists, destroyed their logistics, and disrupted regrouping efforts,” Ejodame stated.
The Air Force noted that the coordinated attacks were the result of inter-service and inter-agency collaboration, reflecting the government’s broader strategy of unified security efforts to combat terrorism and violent criminality across Nigeria’s North Central region.
The terrorists targeted during the operation were reportedly responsible for a series of attacks on rural communities and were also engaged in cattle rustling and other criminal activities that have plagued local residents.
According to the NAF spokesperson, the destruction of these camps and resources is a significant setback for the armed groups operating in the region.
“The operation demonstrated NAF’s professionalism, rapid response capability, and strong coordination with ground forces and other security agencies,” Ejodame added.
Residents in the affected areas had earlier reported an upsurge in attacks by armed groups, prompting fears of escalating insecurity.
The successful airstrikes have reportedly brought temporary relief to several communities, although security forces remain on high alert for retaliatory actions or regrouping attempts by fleeing terrorists.
Operation FANSAN YAMMA is part of a broader national effort to restore peace in states facing high levels of insecurity, including banditry, terrorism, and kidnapping. Niger State, in particular, has been a hotbed of militant activity in recent years due to its vast terrain and porous borders.
Security experts have welcomed the operation, calling for sustained pressure on terrorist cells across the region.
“This kind of decisive and intelligence-led action is critical to degrading the capabilities of these armed groups,” said defence analyst Abdullahi Usman. “But long-term success will also depend on holding reclaimed territories and providing support to displaced communities.”
Air Commodore Ejodame reaffirmed NAF’s dedication to its constitutional duty of defending the country. “The Nigerian Air Force remains resolutely committed to protecting the lives and property of all Nigerians and ensuring lasting peace across the country,” he said.
The military has urged the public to continue providing timely information to security agencies, stressing that community cooperation is key to achieving lasting stability.
