, operating under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has successfully eliminated several high-ranking commanders){kind=link}
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), operating under Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), has successfully eliminated several high-ranking commanders and fighters of the Islamic State of West Africa Province (ISWAP) during a precise air interdiction mission in Borno State.
According to a statement released by the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the operation was carried out on July 27, 2025.
The targeted strike focused on Arina Woje, a notorious ISWAP stronghold located within the Southern Tumbuns of Borno State. The enclave is known to serve as a haven and operational base for terrorist leaders.
The operation was launched following a series of Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) sorties, which provided credible and actionable intelligence. The ISR efforts revealed a resurgence of terrorist activities in the area, which had seen reduced ISWAP presence following recent internal factional conflicts.
The surveillance data further indicated significant movements by insurgents, including the deployment of foot soldiers, reactivation of abandoned structures, and the establishment of concealed command posts and logistics depots hidden beneath dense foliage.
Responding swiftly to this intelligence, NAF deployed its air assets to conduct a focused and coordinated strike mission. Upon arrival, the aircrew successfully identified and engaged designated targets using precision-guided munitions.
The operation achieved devastating outcomes. Preliminary battle damage assessments confirmed the destruction of multiple terrorist structures, including buildings believed to house senior ISWAP leaders, combatants, and critical logistical supplies. This strike significantly disrupted the insurgents’ capacity to coordinate, plan operations, and resupply forces in the region.
This latest offensive underscores the continued resolve of the Nigerian military to dismantle terrorist networks and restore lasting peace and security in the northeastern part of the country.