NAF Confirms Air Operations, As Many Feared Killed In Borno State

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

Several persons are feared killed and others injured following suspected accidental airstrikes at Jilli Market near Fuchimiram village in Geidam Local Government Area of Yobe State.

However, the Nigerian Air Force has confirmed carrying out air operations in the Jilli axis, though it did not state whether any civilian casualties were recorded.

Jilli is a border community with Damasak in Borno State and is located over 200 kilometers from Damaturu, the Yobe State capital.

The incident is said to have occurred while traders were carrying out their normal business activities at the market.

A military fighter jet was said to be tracking the movement of suspected Boko Haram insurgents in the area, who were reportedly said to have moved to the market to collect levies from residents before the incident occurred.

Several victims are said to be receiving emergency medical attention at Geidam Specialist Hospital as the hospital’s Accident and Emergency unit has been overstretched as more injured persons continue to arrive.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed carrying out air operations in the Jilli axis, though it did not state whether any civilian casualties were recorded.

Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame said NAF conducted precision follow-up mop-up airstrikes on identified terrorist locations within the Jilli axis of Borno State on April 11, 2026.

According to the statement, the mission was part of a coordinated air-ground operation with the Nigerian Army under Operation HADIN KAI, targeting fleeing insurgents and regrouping cells in the area.