Nigerian Air Force Eliminates 35 Armed Fighters in Precision Airstrikes Near Cameroon Border

Strikes are the latest by the Nigerian military as it battles a resurgence of attacks by armed groups in the country’s northeast.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed the elimination of at least 35 armed combatants in a series of targeted airstrikes conducted near the Nigeria-Cameroon border. The operation, which took place on Saturday, was launched following credible intelligence indicating that an attack on Nigerian ground troops was being planned by insurgent groups.

NAF spokesperson Ehimen Ejodame stated that the aerial assaults focused on four key targets within the Kumshe area of Borno State—a region long plagued by instability and violence. “Following the operation, communication was re-established with ground troops, who confirmed that the situation around their location had been stabilised,” Ejodame reported.

Resurgent Violence in Northeast Nigeria

This military action comes amid a worrying uptick in violence across northeastern Nigeria, where government forces are engaged in a protracted struggle against Boko Haram and its splinter faction, the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP). Both groups have intensified their operations in recent months, targeting military installations, overrunning bases, and seizing weapons and supplies.

The conflict, now in its 16th year, has resulted in the deaths of more than 35,000 civilians and displaced over two million people, according to United Nations estimates. Although violence had somewhat subsided since its peak around 2015, there has been a marked resurgence in attacks since the beginning of the year, raising concerns among international observers and local communities alike.

Geopolitical Implications and International Support

The geographical positioning of Borno State—bordering Cameroon, Chad, and Niger—adds a layer of complexity to the security situation. Cross-border movement of fighters and resources has long been a challenge for regional military cooperation. In response to the growing threat, the United States recently approved a $346 million weapons sale to Nigeria, pending congressional approval. The proposed package includes bombs, rockets, and munitions intended to bolster Nigeria’s capacity to counter terrorist organizations.

This support is seen as critical in enabling the Nigerian military to conduct more effective and decisive operations against well-armed and mobile non-state actors. Yet, questions remain about the long-term strategy needed to address not only the symptoms but the root causes of the conflict—including poverty, lack of governance, and ideological extremism.

Humanitarian and Security Challenges

While the latest airstrikes have been hailed as a tactical success, the broader humanitarian crisis in northeast Nigeria continues to worsen. Displacement camps are overcrowded, food insecurity is rampant, and access to education and healthcare remains limited for millions. The persistent violence also undermines efforts toward economic recovery and social cohesion in a region that has endured more than a decade of devastation.

Local residents remain caught between the fear of insurgent attacks and the often heavy-handed presence of security forces. Civil society organizations have repeatedly called for a more nuanced approach that combines military action with dialogue, development, and psychosocial support for affected communities.

Looking Ahead: A Sustained Response Needed

As the Nigerian military continues its campaign against armed groups, the importance of intelligence-driven operations—like the recent airstrikes in Kumshe—cannot be overstated. However, sustainable peace will require more than kinetic solutions. Investment in community engagement, deradicalization programs, and regional cooperation is essential to prevent another generation from being lost to violence.

For now, the skies over Borno remain watchful, and the ground troops continue their vigilant stand. The hope among many is that these efforts will eventually lead to a lasting peace—but the road ahead remains fraught with challenges.

Source: Al Jazeera