The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says its air component under Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 has recorded major successes against terrorist groups in parts of Niger State following a series of coordinated air operations carried out between May 20 and 23, 2026.
According to a statement issued on Monday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the intelligence-led operations targeted terrorist hideouts and movement routes in Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas.
The statement said that on May 20, NAF aircraft, working alongside the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, carried out precision air interdiction strikes around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi LGA after receiving credible intelligence on the movement and gathering of terrorists in the area.
“The strikes successfully neutralised several terrorists and disrupted their operational build-up,” the statement added.
It was gathered that air assets reportedly identified and engaged terrorists moving on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi.
The operation led to the killing of several of the armed elements and the destruction of their movement and withdrawal capabilities.
Also on May 21, the Air Component provided close air support to troops engaged in combat with terrorists at Tungan Makeri.
The intervention was said to have helped restore operational advantage to ground forces after successfully striking the terrorists’ positions.
On May 23, NAF conducted armed reconnaissance missions over Dogon Dawa and surrounding communities in Mariga LGA following reports of planned attacks on military positions.
READ ALSO: NAF Intensifies Air Offensive Against Terrorists In Borno, Adamawa
According to the statement, terrorist fighters attempting tactical movement in the area were identified and engaged with precision strikes, leading to the neutralisation of a significant number of the insurgents and the disruption of the planned attacks.
“Post-strike assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying them freedom of action within the general area,” the statement added.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and precision of the personnel involved in the operations.
He also reassured Nigerians of the Air Force’s commitment to sustaining aggressive intelligence-driven missions aimed at combating terrorism and restoring peace in troubled regions across the country.
The Nigerian Air Force reiterated its resolve to continue working with other security agencies to protect lives and secure communities from terrorist threats.