The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says a precision air strike in the Lake Chad region has dealt a significant blow to the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), with preliminary assessments indicating that several prominent fighters, including a member of the group’s Shura Council, were neutralised.
The operation was conducted on 19 October 2026 by the NAF component of the Joint Task Force, Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), against an identified terrorist hideout.
In a press release, the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the strike targeted key terrorist figures and destroyed logistical assets believed to support the group’s movements and operations.
Among those reportedly neutralised were JINDULLAH, identified as the Chief Security Guard and confidant of ISWAP figure Abu Saleem, and ABUL KISSA, a member of the group’s Shura Council.
The Air Force said the operation also destroyed boat engines and motorcycles, which were believed to be used by the terrorists for transportation and operational activities in the difficult terrain of the Lake Chad region.
The most significant result of the operation is the reported neutralisation of key ISWAP figures, particularly a member of its Shura Council and a senior security operative linked to Abu Saleem. Their reported deaths could disrupt the group’s internal security arrangements, leadership coordination and operational activities, although the full impact is yet to be established.
The destruction of boat engines and motorcycles also represents a tactical setback for the group, potentially limiting its mobility and ability to move personnel and supplies across the region.
Commenting on the operation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to sustaining decisive air operations against terrorist networks in support of ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the North-East.
The Air Force said it would continue working with sister Services and other security agencies to consolidate operational gains, protect vulnerable communities and advance efforts towards lasting peace and security in the region.
