NAF Destroys Terrorist Logistics Hubs in Borno Airstrikes

The Nigerian Air Force has stepped up counter-terrorism operations in the North-East, conducting precision airstrikes on terrorist enclaves in Borno State.

The strikes, carried out on May 19, 2026, by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, targeted Bukar Meram in the Southern Tumbuns and Chikide in the Mandara Mountains. According to military sources, the operations were based on credible intelligence and confirmed by surveillance missions.

The airstrikes destroyed terrorist logistics hubs, structures and assembly areas, while several insurgents were also neutralised.

Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, reaffirmed the commitment to sustained joint operations with other security agencies and allied partners, stating that intelligence-driven air operations would continue to target terrorist hideouts and logistics networks across the country.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Army has acquired additional protracted TP-2 drones and reconfigured its aviation assets for combat roles. Chief of Army Staff, Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, speaking at the close of the 2026 COAS conference, described the investments as timely and strategic.

Shaibu noted that the new capabilities have significantly enhanced surveillance, target acquisition, precision strikes and casualty evacuation. He stressed that contemporary security threats demand a proactive, adaptive and innovative military.

The Army chief also highlighted ongoing welfare interventions for personnel, including improved living conditions, healthcare, and educational support, as critical to combat readiness.

The Nigerian Army first acquired tactical unmanned aerial vehicles in 2022 with American-made Aerosonde Mk 4.7 drones, followed by the procurement of 43 Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 combat drones in December 2024.