The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) carried out a night airstrike on March 16, 2025, destroying terrorist hideouts in Chikide and Degbewa.
Group Captain Kabiru Ali, Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information at NAF Headquarters, stated that the operation targeted insurgent strongholds deep in the Mandara Mountains, dealing a severe blow to their activities. He revealed that intelligence had identified terrorist leader Ali Ngulde and his fighters gathering for a high-level meeting at the site.
ISR missions confirmed heightened terrorist activity in Degbewa, where fortified structures with solar-powered installations indicated a command hub. Acting on this intelligence, the NAF launched a surprise night strike, effectively dismantling the terrorists’ logistics and command centre. The attack ignited large fires, destroying multiple structures and eliminating numerous insurgents.
“This operation against Boko Haram enclaves across the theatre significantly degraded their fighting capability while creating favourable conditions for ground troops to advance and dominate the battlespace.”
The air force emphasized that the strike showcased its growing ability to conduct both day and night operations, preventing insurgents from taking cover in darkness.
“The successful execution of this night operation underscores the NAF’s growing dominance in both day and night air power capabilities, proving that insurgents can no longer operate under the cover of darkness,” Ali added.
NAF reaffirmed its commitment to sustained airstrikes to neutralise terrorist networks and restore lasting peace.
