FG defends Jilli airstrike, orders probe

By Joseph Erunke, Abuja

The Federal Government has defended the April 11 airstrike by the Nigerian Air Force on the Jilli axis in Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State, describing it as a “precision, intelligence-led” operation aimed at dismantling a major terrorist stronghold.

In a statement issued Tuesday night to this effect, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, maintained that the strike, conducted under Operation HADIN KAI, was not indiscriminate but targeted at confirmed insurgent elements operating within the area, widely regarded as a key Boko Haram and ISWAP enclave.

Describing the Jilli axis,locally known as “Kasu Daulaye” or “terrorists’ market”,as a high-risk zone long under insurgent control, Idris said intelligence had established that the location served as a hub for levy collection, logistics coordination, and planning of attacks.

Despite the justification, the  minister expressed deep regret over reported civilian casualties, extending condolences to affected families and reaffirming that “every Nigerian life is sacred.”

He disclosed that the operation followed weeks of surveillance, supported by intelligence, reconnaissance, and recent security developments, including the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier in Ngamdu, who reportedly confessed to transporting funds and supplies linked to terrorist networks in Jilli.

Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum was also cited as having previously declared Jilli and nearby Gazabure markets closed due to insurgent activities, further validating the military’s assessment of the area.

The Bindul–Jilli corridor has remained a hotspot for terrorist operations, with recent incidents including an IED attack on troops in January and coordinated assaults in Ngamdu and Benisheikh earlier in April.

Following the airstrike, the Federal Government announced a full and independent investigation to review the operation’s intelligence, targeting, and execution processes, pledging accountability where necessary.

Authorities said humanitarian assistance is already being coordinated with Borno and Yobe State governments, alongside NEMA and SEMA, to support affected communities, while operational safeguards are to be strengthened.

The government also urged civilians to heed security advisories and avoid restricted zones, stressing that cooperation with security agencies remains critical in conflict areas.

It further called on the media to exercise responsibility in reporting security issues, warning that unverified reports could undermine national security efforts and embolden insurgents.

Reaffirming its commitment to the anti-terror war, the government highlighted recent judicial successes, including 386 convictions from 508 terrorism-related cases, with sentences ranging up to life imprisonment.

It also noted the publication of a list of 48 individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing, signaling intensified efforts to dismantle support networks.

“The Federal Government remains resolute in its mission to defeat terrorism and will continue to prioritise precision, accountability, and sustained action until lasting peace is achieved,” the statement added.

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