The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has carried out a precision airstrike on Boko Haram enclaves in Chikide and Degbewa, Borno State, inflicting heavy casualties on the terrorist group.
According to the NAF, intelligence reports and surveillance identified key insurgent hideouts within the Mandara Mountains, where a meeting involving notorious terrorist leader Ali Ngulde and his fighters was believed to be taking place.
In a statement on Tuesday, March 18, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru Ali, revealed that surveillance confirmed the presence of a well-fortified command centre equipped with solar-powered installations. This prompted a surprise night operation targeting the terrorists’ stronghold.
“In a bold demonstration of air power and precision night warfare capabilities, the NAF executed a devastating nocturnal airstrike against terrorist hideouts in Chikide and Degbewa on 16 March 2025,” Ali stated.
He explained that intelligence and ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) data indicated insurgents had gathered for a high-level engagement in the area. Surveillance also detected heavily fortified structures, reinforcing suspicions of an active command hub.
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“ISR missions over the area confirmed terrorist activity at a key assembly point in Degbewa, alongside the presence of heavily fortified structures equipped with solar-powered installations – clear evidence of an active command hub.
“Following this intelligence, the NAF immediately launched a precision night strike under the cover of darkness, achieving complete surprise,” the statement read.
Ali noted that the strike destroyed key logistics and command structures, igniting large fires and eliminating scores of terrorists.
“The successful execution of this night operation underscores the NAF’s growing dominance in both day and night air power capabilities, proving that insurgents can no longer operate under the cover of darkness,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to sustained air operations against insurgents, stating, “Through relentless precision strikes and sustained air operations, the NAF remains committed to utilising its formidable air power to neutralise terrorist networks and restore lasting peace to the region.”