 has intensified aerial operations in Kwara State, targeting hostile elements in a series of coordinated strikes.){kind=link}
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified aerial operations in Kwara State, targeting hostile elements in a series of coordinated strikes under Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY), Sector 3.
The raids covered Kakihun, Oke-Ode, Babanla and adjoining areas, with missions ranging from reconnaissance to close air support.
NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said hostile groups sighted east of Babanla were “decisively engaged,” while surveillance flights monitored key settlements and military positions to generate intelligence for ground troops.
He emphasised that the operations were part of ongoing efforts to degrade criminal networks, strengthen security, and reassure residents of the affected communities.
“All operations were completed successfully,” Ejodame said, noting that the missions underscored NAF’s determination to maintain air superiority, protect civilians and troops, and sustain pressure on armed actors.
The operations in Kwara expand NAF’s footprint beyond its traditional focus on the North East and North West.
Security sources report increased activities of armed groups in parts of Kwara, Kogi and Niger States in recent months, prompting intensified surveillance and airstrikes to deny them safe havens.
In August, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) confirmed similar precision strikes in Zamfara and Katsina States, where over 100 terrorists were neutralised in joint air and ground offensives at Makakkari Forest in Bukuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara, and the Jigawa-Sawai axis on the Katsina–Zamfara border in Danmusa Local Government Area of Katsina.
Analysts say “the simultaneous engagements across multiple zones reflect a deliberate strategy to stretch the capacity of violent groups and prevent regrouping.”
Ejodame urged communities to support security agencies, saying: “Citizens are encouraged to remain confident, vigilant, and supportive of the Armed Forces.”
The Nigerian military has faced mounting pressure to curb the activities of insurgents, bandits and other armed groups whose attacks have displaced thousands and disrupted farming and commerce.
Security experts caution, however, that follow-up ground operations remain essential to consolidating the gains of airstrikes.
PIAK