ISWAP Suffers Major Setback As NAF Air Strike Targets Key Operatives, Logistics In Lake Chad
The Nigerian Air Force has announced a major operational success against Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists following a precision air strike on a suspected terrorist hideout in the Lake Chad region.
The strike, carried out on 19 October 2026 under Operation HADIN KAI, targeted terrorist elements as part of ongoing efforts to weaken insurgent networks and disrupt their operational activities in the North-East.
According to preliminary post-strike assessments, several high-profile ISWAP fighters were neutralised, including JINDULLAH, reportedly the group’s Chief Security Guard and a close confidant of Abu Saleem, as well as ABUL KISSA, a member of the group’s Shura Council.
Military assessments also indicated that the operation destroyed boat engines, motorcycles and other logistical assets believed to be supporting the terrorists’ movement and operations within the Lake Chad area.
The Nigerian Air Force said the successful strike reflected its continued reliance on intelligence-led operations to identify and engage terrorist targets, particularly those concealed in challenging terrain.
The Service noted that eliminating key operatives and destroying essential logistics could significantly disrupt ISWAP’s command structure, restrict its mobility and weaken its ability to launch attacks against communities in the region.
Reacting to the development, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to maintaining sustained air operations against terrorist groups.
He stressed the importance of continued cooperation between the Nigerian Air Force, other military Services and security agencies in consolidating battlefield gains and addressing security threats across the country.
The NAF further assured Nigerians of its resolve to support ongoing counterterrorism operations, safeguard vulnerable communities and contribute to restoring enduring peace and stability in the North-East.
