The Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 1 recorded significant operational successes against terrorist elements during a series of intelligence-led kinetic operations conducted between 20 and 23 May 2026 across Rafi and Mariga Local Government Areas of Niger State.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement, on Monday, narrated that on 20 May 2026, following credible intelligence on the movement and convergence of terrorists around Tungan Bako and Kasuwan Daji in Rafi LGA, the Air Component, in conjunction with the Nigerian Army Space Command Regiment, executed precision air interdiction strikes, which successfully neutralized several terrorists and effectively disrupted their operational build-up within the area.

He further disclosed that similarly, on 21 May 2026, terrorists moving on motorcycles and on foot with rustled cattle from Tungunguna towards Uregi, were positively identified and engaged, resulting in their neutralization and the destruction of their movement and withdrawal capability.

On same day, the Air Component also provided close air support to troops in contact with terrorists at Tungan Makeri, successfully engaging the terrorists and restoring operational advantage to friendly forces.

Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame further narrated that in continuation of sustained offensive operations, the Air Component conducted armed reconnaissance missions on 23 May 2026 over Dogon Dawa and adjoining locations in Mariga LGA, following reports of planned terrorist attacks on troop positions.

According to Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, "terrorist elements observed attempting tactical movement within the area, were swiftly acquired and engaged with precision strikes, leading to the successful neutralization of a significant number of the terrorists and the disruption of the planned attacks.

"Post-strike assessments confirmed the effectiveness of the missions in degrading terrorist capabilities and denying the terrorists freedom of action within the general area."

He stated that the operations were to reaffirm the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering resolve to defend the nation and protect the lives of Nigerians in collaboration with other security agencies.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, commended the professionalism and precision of the personnel involved, while assuring Nigerians that the NAF will continue to sustain aggressive, intelligence-driven air operations aimed at neutralizing terrorist threats, protecting innocent lives and restoring lasting peace across all troubled regions.