NAF Delivers Devastating Blow to Terrorists in Sambisa Forest
The Nigerian Air Force has successfully executed a precision military operation against terrorist elements hiding in the notorious Sambisa Forest area of Borno State. The strategic air interdiction mission took place on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, targeting the ARRA hideout within the Sambisa general area.
Precision Strike Achieves Intended Objectives
According to official statements from the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operation achieved its complete intended effect. The precision strike resulted in the destruction of all identified targets and significantly degraded the operational capabilities of the terrorist group.
The mission was conducted by the Air Component of Joint Task Force Operation HADIN KAI under the direct directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke. This operation represents another major breakthrough in Nigeria's ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
Intelligence-Driven Operation Disrupts Terrorist Networks
The successful airstrike followed extensive intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions that had been tracking terrorist movements. This intelligence gathering became particularly crucial following the October 17, 2025 ambush on ground troops at KASHOMRI.
Air Commodore Ejodame emphasized that the operation has effectively disrupted the terrorists' command and logistics networks, dealing a significant blow to their operational structure. The strike demonstrates the NAF's unwavering commitment to maintaining relentless pressure on terrorist elements across all operational theaters.
Visual evidence of the successful operations has emerged through images released by Arise News via their X handle @ARISEtv on Thursday, November 20, 2025. The images clearly show targeted structures under trees being destroyed, featuring both before and after perspectives of the airstrikes.
Public Reaction and Ongoing Operations
While the military celebrates this achievement, some Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions to the news. Social media comments reveal varying perspectives:
- Some users questioned the clarity of evidence, calling for real videos instead of still images
- Others emphasized the need to target sponsors of terrorism for lasting victory
- Several commentators raised questions about ground verification of the targets
This operation forms part of broader counterterrorism efforts across multiple states. Recent military actions include:
- Precision airstrikes on ISWAP and bandit hideouts in Borno, Kwara, and Katsina states
- Armed reconnaissance missions in Zamfara, Kebbi, and Kaduna to prevent attacks
- Previous successful operations in the Mandara Mountains of Borno State
The Nigerian Air Force continues to demonstrate its enhanced capability in conducting precision strikes against terrorist elements, contributing significantly to national security efforts in the ongoing fight against insurgency.
