By By Elizabeth Ugbo
The Federal Government on Tuesday said the Nigerian Air Force carried out a precision airstrike in the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area, Borno State, under Operation HADIN KAI, targeting Boko Haram and ISWAP fighters, after weeks of intelligence gathering, to disrupt insurgent logistics, while addressing reports of civilian casualties.
FG: Jilli Strike Targeted Insurgent Stronghold
The government said the strike focused on Jilli, also called “Kasu Daulaye,” known as a terrorist logistics hub. Officials stressed that security agencies had long marked the area as high-risk.
According to the Minister of Information, security advisories had restricted civilian movement in the zone. Therefore, authorities did not classify the operation as indiscriminate.
Intelligence Led to Operation
Security agencies relied on sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance before the strike. These efforts identified Jilli as a base for levy collection and attack coordination.
On April 12, 2026, operatives arrested a 15-year-old ISWAP courier in Ngamdu. The suspect reportedly moved funds and supplies between Jilli and nearby areas.
This arrest strengthened intelligence linking the axis to insurgent activity. It also exposed how terrorists exploit civilians, including minors.
Zulum Confirms Area as Terrorist Hub
Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, confirmed that authorities shut Jilli and Gazabure markets five years ago due to insurgent control.
He described the location as a known terrorist enclave. This confirmation aligned with military intelligence reports.
Military Targets Supply Routes
The government said the Bindul–Jilli corridor serves as a major terrorist route. Recent attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheikh have links to the same network.
After weeks of monitoring, the Nigerian Air Force and Army confirmed terrorist presence. They then executed the strike to weaken insurgent supply chains.
FG Orders Independent Investigation
Despite defending the operation, the Federal Government ordered a full and independent investigation. The probe will review intelligence, targeting, and execution.
Authorities also promised accountability if errors occurred. In addition, they will strengthen safeguards to protect civilians.
Humanitarian Support for Affected Communities
The government has started working with Borno and Yobe State Governments. Agencies like NEMA and SEMA are providing relief materials to affected residents.
Officials urged civilians to obey security advisories and avoid restricted zones. They also encouraged cooperation with security agencies.
FG Warns Against Misinformation
The government called on the media to report responsibly. It warned that unverified reports could harm national security efforts.
Officials stressed that press freedom must align with accuracy and verification.
Progress in Terrorism Prosecution
The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, recently disclosed major progress in terrorism trials.
Authorities secured 386 convictions from 508 cases at the Federal High Court in Abuja. Many offenders received life sentences for supporting insurgents.
Observers from Amnesty International, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the National Human Rights Commission monitored the trials.
Crackdown on Terror Financing
The government also published a list of 48 individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing. Officials insisted that no sponsor will find safe haven.
FG Reaffirms Commitment to Security
The Federal Government reaffirmed its resolve to defeat terrorism and banditry. It stated that tragic incidents will not weaken military operations.
