The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has engaged suspected terrorist elements during an armed reconnaissance mission around Rijana in Kaduna State, following intelligence reports of planned kidnapping activities in the area.
The operation, conducted on October 29, 2026, involved an A-29 Super Tucano aircraft deployed by the Air Component of Joint Task Force North West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 1.
According to the operational report, the mission followed intelligence indicating the presence of suspected terrorist elements, including Dogo Gide and his associates, around Rijana, with alleged plans to carry out kidnappings.
During the mission, the aircrew conducted extensive aerial surveillance of the identified location, characterised by thick vegetation, riverlines and an incomplete structure.
The crew subsequently extended reconnaissance to adjoining tracks, where suspected terrorist elements were sighted around huts and tents concealed beneath trees.
The identified positions were engaged, while their coordinates were transmitted to another airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance platform for further assessment.
The aircraft also conducted reconnaissance and provided air cover along the Abuja–Kaduna Main Supply Route and the adjoining railway corridor to assess the security situation and identify potential threats.
The report indicated that no threats were observed along the railway corridor, while normal human and vehicular activities were recorded along the major supply route. The crew also established visual contact with ground troops operating in the area, with the security situation described as calm and stable.
The mission highlights the Nigerian Air Force's capacity to integrate armed reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, route surveillance and air cover to support ongoing joint operations.
The Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 1, reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining operational pressure on terrorist elements through coordinated operations with other security agencies.
The efforts, according to the operational report, are aimed at denying terrorists freedom of action, protecting critical national infrastructure, safeguarding lives and restoring lasting peace and security across the operational theatre.
