The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) says more than 20 ISIS/ISWAP fighters have been killed during coordinated airstrikes carried out in the Metele axis of Borno State.
The military operation, conducted in partnership with the United States Africa Command (AFRICOM), targeted terrorist elements reportedly converging in the area following intelligence surveillance.
In a statement released on Monday, the Director of Defence Information, Major General Samaila Uba, said the strikes were part of sustained counter-insurgency efforts across north-eastern Nigeria.
He stated that the operation was based on credible intelligence regarding the movement and concentration of insurgents within the Metele general area.
According to Uba, the latest offensive followed earlier successful operations that resulted in the elimination of a senior ISIS commander identified as Abu-Bilal al-Minuki.
The Defence Headquarters said the ongoing campaign was aimed at weakening terrorist networks, disrupting insurgent operations and preventing armed groups from regrouping in the North-East.
Uba reaffirmed the commitment of the Armed Forces of Nigeria to protecting the nation’s territorial integrity and combating terrorism across all affected regions.
He stressed that military forces would continue to intensify both air and ground offensives against insurgent groups in collaboration with international allies.
“There will be no safe haven for terrorists anywhere within Nigeria,” the statement added.
The military said the continued operations were intended to restore stability and lasting peace to communities affected by insurgency and terrorism.
