Airstrikes Hit Terrorist Hub in Borno, Over 100 Insurgents Reportedly Killed Amid Civilian Casualty Fears

Story: written by springnewsng April 14,2026
The Nigerian military has carried out a major air operation targeting a suspected terrorist stronghold in Borno State, with reports indicating that over 100 fighters linked to extremist groups were killed during the strike.
The operation was executed by the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, which launched coordinated bombardments on a known insurgent enclave near Jilli village in Gubio Local Government Area.
Military sources said the location had long been identified as a logistics base and planning ground for attacks by Islamic State West Africa Province and Boko Haram elements.
According to officials, the air raid followed extensive intelligence gathering, including surveillance missions that tracked the movement of motorcycles and armed vehicles converging on the area. The military described the strike as precise and based on verified intelligence.
However, the incident has sparked concern after reports emerged that the bombardment coincided with activities at a local market, raising fears of civilian casualties. Authorities in neighbouring Yobe State have since activated emergency response measures.
The Yobe State Emergency Management Agency confirmed that response teams were deployed to assess the situation and provide support, especially as some victims were believed to be traders from nearby communities.
Defending the operation, military spokespersons insisted the target was a well-known insurgent hub, stressing that the area had previously been flagged as a terrorist corridor.
Meanwhile, Babagana Zulum reiterated warnings to residents against aiding insurgents, noting that the affected market had been shut down years earlier due to its alleged use by militant groups and their collaborators.
He added that the state government remains in close coordination with security agencies and neighbouring authorities to manage the situation and ensure civilian protection.
The development highlights the ongoing complexity of counterinsurgency operations in Nigeria’s North-East, where military offensives against armed groups often intersect with civilian populations.