Several Fighters Killed As NAF Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Hideouts in Sambisa

Several Fighters Killed As NAF Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Hideouts in Sambisa

BORNO STATE, NIGERIA – The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has delivered a devastating blow to insurgent networks operating in Nigeria’s North-East region, conducting precision air strikes that destroyed key terrorist hideouts and logistics structures at Biramiri in the Gezuwa general area of Borno State.

The coordinated military operation, carried out on May 26, 2026, by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI, followed credible Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) reports that pinpointed the exact locations of terrorist camps and support facilities within the notorious Sambisa Forest axis.

According to an official statement released on Tuesday by the Director of Public Relations and Information at Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the coordinated precision strikes successfully destroyed key terrorist facilities and neutralised several insurgents operating within the targeted area.

“The coordinated attacks destroyed key terrorist facilities and neutralised several fighters, further crippling the operational capacity of the insurgents,” Ejodame stated.

The NAF spokesperson further revealed that the sustained air offensives have continued to generate fear and confusion among terrorist elements operating across the Sambisa axis.

Sustained Bombardments Deny Terrorists Freedom of Movement – According to Ejodame, intelligence assessments indicate growing apprehension and disorientation within the ranks of the insurgents as continuous bombardments deny them freedom of movement and access to safe havens. The relentless aerial campaign has significantly disrupted the ability of terrorist networks to plan, coordinate, and execute attacks against civilian and military targets in the region.

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Military’s Commitment to North-East Peace – The NAF reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and restoring lasting peace and security across Nigeria’s crisis-ridden North-East region. “The NAF, in concert with troops of Operation HADIN KAI and other security agencies, remains resolute in maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist networks while reinforcing its commitment to protecting innocent lives and restoring lasting peace and security across the North-East,” the statement added.

Pre-Sallah Offensive Intensifies – The latest air strikes form part of ongoing efforts by security agencies to intensify counter-terrorism operations in the North-East region ahead of the Sallah celebration, ensuring that insurgent groups remain on the back foot during the festive period. Military analysts note that such timing is strategic, as terrorist groups often attempt to launch high-profile attacks during major holidays to maximize psychological impact.

Strategic Significance of Sambisa Forest – Sambisa Forest has long served as a notorious hideout for insurgent groups operating in North-East Nigeria, providing dense cover for terrorist activities and serving as a critical logistics and command hub. The forest has also recently witnessed internal power struggles, with reports indicating violent clashes between rival factions Boko Haram and ISWAP (Islamic State West Africa Province) for supremacy and control of territory within the forest.

According to security intelligence sources, the latest air strikes mark a significant blow to these networks, further restricting their operational capabilities and denying them critical infrastructure. The successful operation demonstrates the Nigerian military’s enhanced intelligence-gathering capabilities and precision-strike proficiency, as well as its determination to flush out insurgents from their remaining strongholds.

Impact on Terrorist Operations – Intelligence assessments suggest that the continuous aerial bombardments have created a state of disarray within insurgent ranks. The destruction of logistics structures at Biramiri has disrupted supply chains, making it increasingly difficult for terrorist fighters to access weapons, food, and medical supplies. This degradation of operational capacity is expected to reduce the frequency and intensity of insurgent attacks in the coming weeks.

Several Fighters Killed As NAF Air Strikes Destroy Terrorist Hideouts in Sambisa