Abuja: The Federal Government says Jilli axis where the Nigerian Air Force carried out a precision counter-terrorism strike has been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, stated this in a recent announcement.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Idris extended the government’s deepest condolences to the families of those affected and sympathized with the injured. The statement emphasized that every Nigerian life is sacred and any loss of life is deeply regretted. On April 11, 2026, the Nigerian Air Force, under Operation HADIN KAI, conducted a precision counter-terrorism strike on confirmed terrorist targets in the Jilli axis, Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State. The Federal Government reiterated that this was a deliberate, intelligence-led operation, not an indiscriminate attack, conducted in one of the most active insurgent corridors in the North-East.
The minister explained that the operation was based on sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The Jilli axis, also known as ‘Kasu Daulaye’ or the terrorists’ market, has long functioned as an insurgent-controlled enclave. Intelligence confirmed that Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives used the area to collect levies, procure supplies, and coordinate attacks. This assessment was reinforced when a 15-year-old ISWAP courier was apprehended, revealing the depth of terrorist activities in the area.
Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets had been officially closed five years ago due to insurgent control. Zulum described the area as a known hub for terrorist operations, aligning with intelligence that informed the strike. The Bindul-Jilli axis has consistently been identified as a major terrorist corridor, with recent attacks linked to the same network.
The April 11 strike followed weeks of surveillance in response to escalating threats. After a rigorous targeting process, the Nigerian Air Force, working with the Nigerian Army, confirmed the presence of terrorist elements and executed the strike to disrupt supply lines and degrade insurgent capacity. The Federal Government has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident to review intelligence, targeting, and execution.
Idris emphasized the protection of civilian lives as a core obligation of the Armed Forces. The government is collaborating with Borno and Yobe State governments, as well as NEMA and SEMA, to provide humanitarian support to affected families. Operational safeguards will also be strengthened.
The minister urged civilians to strictly observe security advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security agencies, highlighting the essential role of public cooperation in conflict areas. He also called on the media to act responsibly in reporting security matters, stressing that press freedom must be matched with responsibility.
The Nigerian government continues its commitment to defeating terrorism with concrete actions. Recent convictions in terrorism-related cases underscore this effort, with observers from Amnesty International, the Nigerian Bar Association, and the National Human Rights Commission monitoring the trials. The government has also published a list of individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing, reinforcing that there is no safe haven for those who support terrorism. The Federal Government remains resolute in its commitment to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting peace is achieved.