The Nigerian Air Force says a single precision airstrike has cut into the security core and leadership of the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) in the Lake Chad region.
NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame announced the strike on Tuesday, saying it hit an identified terrorist hideout on 19 October 2026. He called it a “significant operational success.”
According to preliminary post-strike assessments, several prominent fighters were killed, including two figures the Air Force described as part of the group’s leadership structure. One is Jindullah, reportedly the chief security guard and confidant of Abu Saleem. The other is Abul Kissa, said to be a member of the ISWAP Shura Council.
The strike also destroyed boat engines and motorcycles, which the Air Force says the group relies on to move around and carry out operations in the difficult Lake Chad terrain.
Ejodame said the operation reflects intelligence-led strikes against enclaves hidden in hard-to-reach areas. By removing key operatives and logistics, he said, it sets back ISWAP’s ability to coordinate and threaten vulnerable communities.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, reaffirmed the Air Force’s resolve to keep up decisive air operations. He said the service would work with sister services and other security agencies to consolidate gains and protect communities in the North-East.
The strike follows a violent few weeks in the region.