FG explains Jilli airstrike, orders independent probe as military targets Boko Haram, ISWAP supply hub
Federal Government has defended the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) airstrike on the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area in Borno State, describing the operation as a carefully planned, intelligence-driven counter-terrorism mission aimed at dismantling Boko Haram and ISWAP insurgent networks in one of the most volatile corridors in the North-East.
In a statement issued on Tuesday by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, the Federal Government said the strike, conducted on April 11 under Operation HADIN KAI, targeted confirmed terrorist positions and was not an indiscriminate attack.
“On 11 April 2026, the Nigerian Air Force @NigAirForce, under Operation HADIN KAI, carried out a precision counter-terrorism strike on confirmed terrorist targets in the Jilli axis, Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State,” the statement read.
The government stressed that the operation followed extensive intelligence gathering and surveillance in a location long identified as a terrorist-controlled enclave.
“The Federal Government reiterates that this was a deliberate, intelligence-led operation, not an indiscriminate attack, conducted in one of the most active insurgent corridors in the North-East. The area had been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence.”
While defending the operation, the government expressed sympathy to victims affected by the strike, acknowledging the gravity of civilian casualties.
“The Government extends its deepest condolences to the families of those affected and sympathises with the injured. Every Nigerian life is sacred, and any loss of civilian life is deeply regretted.”
Intelligence-Led Operation
According to the statement, the operation followed sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance activities that identified the Jilli axis — locally known as “Kasu Daulaye” — as a major operational base for insurgents.
“The Jilli axis, locally known as ‘Kasu Daulaye’ (the terrorists’ market), has long functioned as an insurgent-controlled enclave. Intelligence confirmed that Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives used the area to collect levies, procure supplies, and coordinate attacks.”
The government further disclosed that the intelligence assessment was reinforced after troops apprehended a teenage ISWAP courier.
“This assessment was reinforced on 12 April 2026, when troops apprehended a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu. He admitted moving funds and logistics between Jilli and other locations, highlighting the depth of terrorist activity in the area and the exploitation of civilians, including minors.”
Zulum Confirms Area Closed Over Insurgency
The Federal Government also cited comments by Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who reportedly confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets had been shut down years earlier due to insurgent dominance.
“Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets had been officially closed five years ago due to insurgent control, describing the area as a known hub for terrorist operations. This aligns with intelligence that informed the strike.”
Security authorities further noted that the Bindul–Jilli axis has remained a hotspot for insurgent activities, with recent attacks linked to the same network.
“The Bindul–Jilli axis has consistently been identified as a major terrorist corridor. In January 2026, troops suffered casualties from an IED attack along the route, while coordinated attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheikh on 9 April were linked to the same network.”
FG Orders Independent Investigation
Despite defending the operation, the Federal Government announced that a full independent investigation has been ordered to review the incident and ensure accountability where necessary.
“The Federal Government has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident. This will review intelligence, targeting, and execution, and we will address any gaps and ensure accountability where needed. The protection of civilian lives remains a core obligation of the Armed Forces.”
The government also disclosed that humanitarian assistance is being coordinated for affected communities.
“The government is working with the Borno and Yobe State Governments, as well as NEMA and SEMA, to provide humanitarian support to affected families. Operational safeguards will also be strengthened.”
Call for Civilian Cooperation
The Federal Government urged civilians to heed security advisories and avoid restricted areas in conflict zones.
“Civilians are urged to strictly observe security advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security agencies. Public cooperation is essential in conflict areas.”
The government also appealed to media organisations to exercise responsibility in reporting security issues.
“The Federal Government calls on the media to act with responsibility in reporting security matters. In times of crisis, unverified reporting can mislead the public, embolden terrorists, and undermine national efforts.”
“The Federal Government stresses that press freedom must be matched with responsibility. The public deserves verified and accurate information, especially on matters of national security.”
Terrorism Convictions Highlight Progress
The government also highlighted recent counter-terrorism successes, including convictions secured in terrorism-related cases.
“Nigeria continues to demonstrate its commitment to defeating terrorism through concrete action. The Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, recently disclosed that 386 convictions were secured from 508 terrorism-related cases in a landmark trial at the Federal High Court in Abuja.”
“The convictions, involving Boko Haram and ISWAP suspects, included sentences up to life imprisonment, with offenders found guilty of providing material support to insurgents.”
The government further noted that observers from Amnesty International, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the National Human Rights Commission monitored the trials, while authorities also released a list of individuals linked to terrorism financing.
“The government has also published a list of 48 individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing, reinforcing that there is no safe haven for those who support terrorism.”
The Federal Government reaffirmed its determination to defeat terrorism and maintain national security.
“The Federal Government remains resolute in its commitment to defeating terrorism and banditry. It will not allow the exploitation of tragic incidents to weaken national resolve or undermine the mission of the Armed Forces.”
“The Government remains committed to greater precision, accountability, and sustained action until lasting peace is achieved.”