FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DEFENDS JILLI AIRSTRIKE

The Federal Government has described the recent airstrike in the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State as a precision counter-terrorism operation conducted under Operation HADIN KAI by the Nigerian Air Force.

In a statement issued yesterday by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, MOHAMMED IDRIS, the government stated that the operation was not indiscriminate, noting that the affected area had long been classified as a high-risk zone with restrictions on civilian movement.

It said  the operation followed sustained intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance which identified the Jilli axis, locally referred to as “Kasu Daulaye,” as an insurgent-controlled enclave used for logistics, levy collection and coordination of attacks by Boko Haram and Islamic State West Africa Province elements.

It further stated that the assessment was reinforced on 12th April 2026 following the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, identified as TIJJANI, in Ngamdu, with the suspect reportedly admitting to transporting funds and logistics between Jilli and other locations, highlighting the use of civilians, including minors, in insurgent operations.

The Federal Government said it has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident to review intelligence, targeting and operational procedures, and to ensure accountability where necessary, adding that operational safeguards would be strengthened, while reaffirming that the protection of civilian lives remains a core responsibility of the Armed Forces.