The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully conducted precision airstrikes against a major terrorist enclave in Jubillaram, located in the Tumbuns area. The Saturday operation not only eliminated numerous terrorists but also destroyed critical infrastructure that served as both a food storage facility and a sanctuary for terrorist commanders and fighters.
Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters, revealed that the operation was meticulously planned and executed by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (AC OPHK). The mission’s timing proved particularly crucial, as intelligence sources had linked the terrorists operating from this location to recent violent incidents, including a significant attack on military troops in Kareto on November 16, 2024.
The success of this operation hinged on sophisticated preparation and execution. Prior to the airstrikes, extensive Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions were conducted over several days. These reconnaissance efforts were vital in confirming the presence of active terrorist structures skillfully concealed beneath dense vegetation, demonstrating the technological capabilities and tactical precision of Nigeria’s air force.
The operation unfolded in multiple phases, beginning with targeted strikes from NAF fighter jets in a robust air interdiction mission. The initial assault specifically targeted and destroyed identified structures that served as storage facilities while simultaneously neutralizing terrorists present at the location. To ensure complete mission success, the air force conducted thorough mop-up operations using cannon fire, effectively eliminating any remaining hostile elements attempting to flee the scene.
This strategic strike represents more than just a tactical victory; it marks a significant disruption to the terrorists’ operational capabilities in the region. By destroying both the sanctuary and the food storage facilities, the NAF has delivered a dual blow to the terrorist infrastructure. The elimination of food supplies particularly threatens to cripple the terrorists’ ability to sustain their operations in the Lake Chad region, while the destruction of their safe haven diminishes their capacity to plan and execute future attacks.
The operation’s significance extends beyond immediate tactical gains. By targeting this specific location, the NAF has demonstrated its ability to identify and eliminate terrorist threats that directly impact military operations and civilian safety. The connection between the Jubillaram base and the recent attack on troops in Kareto underscores the strategic importance of this operation in preventing future assaults on military personnel and civilians alike.
Air Commodore Akinboyewa emphasized that this mission exemplifies the NAF’s unwavering commitment to national defense and security. The air force’s ability to conduct both independent operations and provide crucial support to surface forces in counterterrorism operations showcases the versatility and effectiveness of Nigeria’s air power in modern warfare.
The success of this operation also highlights the evolution of Nigeria’s military capabilities in combating terrorism. The combination of advanced intelligence gathering, precise targeting, and effective execution demonstrates the NAF’s growing proficiency in conducting complex counter-terrorism operations. The use of multiple aircraft types and weapons systems, including both precision strikes and follow-up cannon fire, shows the force’s tactical flexibility and technological sophistication.
Looking ahead, the NAF has reaffirmed its determination to maintain pressure on terrorist elements threatening Nigeria’s security. Air Commodore Akinboyewa made it clear that these robust independent and joint operations will continue until all enemies of Nigeria’s prosperity and wellbeing are brought to justice. This commitment suggests a sustained campaign against terrorist infrastructure and personnel in the Lake Chad region and beyond.
The destruction of the Jubillaram enclave represents a significant milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. By eliminating both terrorist personnel and their support infrastructure, the NAF has demonstrated its capability to strike at the heart of terrorist operations. The success of this mission not only disrupts immediate terrorist activities but also sets a precedent for future operations targeting similar terrorist strongholds.
As Nigeria continues its fight against terrorism, operations like the Jubillaram strike serve as powerful examples of the military’s ability to execute complex missions effectively. The combination of intelligence gathering, tactical precision, and operational success demonstrates the NAF’s evolution into a formidable force in counter-terrorism operations, providing hope for sustained security improvements in the Lake Chad region and across Nigeria.
