The Nigerian Air Force has intensified its counterterrorism campaign in the North East region of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, confirming a major aerial strike on Arra, a long-established terrorist hideout deep inside the Sambisa Forest. The action forms part of a renewed offensive under Operation Hadin Kai, which coordinates national military efforts against violent extremist groups across the region.
According to a detailed statement released in Abuja, the Director of Public Relations and Information of the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, explained that the latest bombardment was ordered directly by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke. Okay News reports that Nigerian Air Force leadership has recently stepped up pressure on terror cells following a series of intelligence-based alerts.
Ejodame emphasised that the decisive operation followed an intensive cycle of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities which monitored the movement of fighters believed to be responsible for the October seventeenth ambush that occurred near Kashomri in Borno State, North East Nigeria. He said persistent airborne surveillance revealed unusual patterns of activity around Kashomri and inside the Sambisa axis, prompting further assessment.
He explained that the Arra location displayed convincing signs of active terrorist structures, including logistics points, movement corridors, and temporary shelters used by the militants. According to him, Nigerian Air Force combat aircraft were directed to engage the coordinates through clearly defined and successive attack runs designed to destroy entrenched hideouts and disrupt hostile operations.
Air Commodore Ejodame stated, “He said Nigerian Air Force aircraft engaged designated targets through coordinated and successive attack runs.” He further added that all identified structures within the targeted zone were neutralised, thereby weakening the operational capability of the insurgent network and breaking key command and logistics chains.
He stressed that the mission reinforces the determination of the Nigerian Air Force to protect communities, ensure territorial integrity, and support ground troops deployed across multiple conflict theatres in the country. He added that the service remains committed to neutralising threats, stabilising affected regions, and securing lasting peace throughout Nigeria.
