What You Need to Know
The Nigerian Air Force has conducted airstrikes in northeastern Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of over 40 militants and the destruction of approximately 10 boats. These operations targeted groups preparing to launch attacks in Borno State, a long-standing stronghold for armed groups, particularly Boko Haram and ISIS affiliates.
Africa. The Nigerian Air Force has announced that it conducted airstrikes in northeastern Nigeria, resulting in the deaths of over 40 militants and the destruction of approximately 10 boats belonging to a group preparing to launch attacks in Borno State, which has been a stronghold for armed groups for over 17 years.
Air Force spokesperson Ehiemen Igodami stated that the airstrikes were carried out on January 15 and 16 in the areas of Masrm and Azir near Lake Chad, following intelligence reports about the movements of militants from Boko Haram and ISIS West Africa. He explained in a military statement that the first strike targeted a gathering of militants who were using boats to head towards the town of Baga and the fish dam areas along the shores of Lake Chad. He added that three consecutive air sorties successfully dispersed the group before pursuing and neutralizing the fleeing militants in the nearby bushes.
The following day, fighter jets conducted another strike in the Azir area, targeting militants who had withdrawn from a previous engagement and were attempting to regroup under trees, resulting in the deaths of several and the re-establishment of control over the area, according to the military statement.
Background of the Conflict
These operations come at a time when Borno State is witnessing an increase in militant attacks on military and civilian convoys, as the region remains a central hub for armed rebellion that began in 2009 and has claimed tens of thousands of lives, in addition to displacing millions both within Nigeria and beyond.
Lake Chad and its surrounding areas have repeatedly been the scene of militant operations due to their rugged geography, which provides a safe haven for launching surprise attacks on government forces and nearby villages.
Borno State has been a focal point of armed conflict for over 17 years, primarily due to the insurgency led by Boko Haram, which began in 2009. This conflict has resulted in the deaths of tens of thousands and the displacement of millions, creating a humanitarian crisis in the region. The area around Lake Chad has become a strategic location for militant operations, given its challenging geography that allows for surprise attacks on government forces and nearby villages.
