NAF logs over 1,500 flight hours, eliminates 592 insurgents
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced significant progress in its counter-insurgency campaign in the North-East, eliminating at least 592 terrorists and destroying 372 enemy assets in the past eight months.
According to NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, these figures were shared by the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, during a visit to Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Zulum, in Maiduguri.
Abubakar reported that the air campaign involved 798 combat sorties and more than 1,500 operational flight hours. These missions resulted in the destruction of 372 enemy assets, which included 206 technical vehicles and 166 logistics hubs.
“This year, our air war is faster, sharper, and more surgical. We are taking out high-value targets, crippling their logistics, and hunting down every cell that threatens the peace of the North-East,” the Air Chief stated.
READ ALSO: Pilots escape death as Airforce plane crashes in Kaduna
He highlighted that NAF has maintained continuous operations using A-29 Super Tucano jets for precision strikes, Mi-171 helicopters for logistics and medical evacuations, and advanced surveillance aircraft for round-the-clock target tracking.
Abubakar also noted that the recent acquisition of a Mi-35 gunship will enhance close-air support for ground troops.
The CAS praised what he called the “Borno Model,” a combination of aggressive military action and community-focused non-kinetic engagement, describing it as a “winning formula.”
“We are winning this war in the air, on the ground, and in the hearts of the people,” Abubakar vowed.
READ ALSO: Military foils Boko Haram’s plot to plant bombs on Borno bridge
Governor Zulum praised the Air Force for its crucial role in degrading insurgent capabilities. “Your operations have saved countless lives and allowed our communities to begin rebuilding. The people of Borno State recognise your sacrifices and stand firmly behind you,” Zulum said.
However, the governor called for the deployment of more air assets to hard-to-reach areas like the Lake Chad shores, Sambisa Forest, the Timbuktu Triangle, and the Mandara Mountains. “We need heavy air power to eliminate the insurgents and address insecurity in these regions,” he stressed.
Zulum pledged the state government’s full support to sustain the momentum and close existing security gaps, affirming, “Borno State remains fully committed to working with the Nigerian Air Force and all stakeholders to consolidate the gains we have achieved.”
Follow the Neptune Prime channel on WhatsApp:
Do you have breaking news, interview request, opinion, suggestion, or want your event covered? Email us at neptuneprime2233@gmail.com
