NAF Strikes ISWAP Hideout In Lake Chad, Neutralises Key Terrorist Leaders
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has dealt a significant blow to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) following a precision air strike on an identified terrorist hideout in the Lake Chad region on 19 October 2026.
The operation, conducted under the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), forms part of sustained military efforts to dismantle terrorist networks, disrupt their logistics and restore peace and security across Nigeria’s North-East.
Preliminary post-strike assessments indicate that several prominent ISWAP fighters were neutralised during the operation. Among those reportedly killed were JINDULLAH, identified as the group’s Chief Security Guard and confidant of Abu Saleem, and ABUL KISSA, a member of the ISWAP Shura Council.
The air strike also destroyed critical logistical assets, including boat engines and motorcycles believed to have been used by the terrorists to facilitate their movement and support operational activities.
The NAF said the operation demonstrated the effectiveness of intelligence-led precision strikes against terrorist enclaves located in difficult terrain. The neutralisation of key operatives and destruction of logistical resources are expected to undermine the group’s operational capacity and limit its ability to coordinate attacks against vulnerable communities.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to sustain decisive air operations against terrorist groups in support of ongoing counterterrorism efforts.
He reiterated the Service’s commitment to working with sister Services and other security agencies to consolidate operational gains, protect civilians and promote lasting peace and stability in the North-East.
The Nigerian Air Force maintained that it would continue to leverage intelligence-driven operations to degrade terrorist networks and strengthen national security.
