By Milcah Tanimu

The Defence headquarters has reported a series of successful airstrikes in Borno and Niger states, resulting in the elimination of three terrorist commanders and over 715 militants. Led by the Nigerian Air Force, these strikes targeted key terrorist enclaves, including those commanded by Ali Dawud, Bakura Fallujah, and Mallam Ari in Kolleram village, Borno state.

During a press briefing in Abuja, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, highlighted the effectiveness of recent operations against terrorist leaders and their cohorts across multiple states, including Katsina, Niger, Sokoto, and Zamfara. Over the past three months, these operations have significantly disrupted terrorist activities, with numerous commanders and combatants neutralized.

Notable targets included Nasanda, Babaru, Kamilu Buzaru, Ado Ailero, Mallam Yadee, Mallam Umar, Abdullahi Nasanda, Mallam Tukur, and Bello Turji. Coordinated ground and air strikes effectively disrupted or dismantled their enclaves.

In addition to military casualties, 146 individuals were apprehended, and 465 kidnap victims were rescued. Troops also seized substantial quantities of stolen crude oil and illegal petroleum products, along with a significant cache of weapons and ammunition.

Maj.-Gen. Buba emphasized the military’s commitment to sustaining momentum against terrorist activities, acknowledging significant achievements in degrading their infrastructure and eliminating key leaders. However, he recognized the ongoing challenges and the need for continued efforts to eradicate the terrorist threat completely.