The Federal Government has stated that the Jilli axis, where the Nigerian Air Force recently carried out a precision counter-terrorism strike, is a designated high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian movement.
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, disclosed this in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, while extending condolences to families affected and sympathies to the injured. He stressed that every Nigerian life is sacred and any loss is deeply regretted.
Idris explained that on April 11, 2026, the Nigerian Air Force, under Operation HADIN KAI, conducted a precision strike on confirmed terrorist targets in the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area, Borno State.
He said the operation was intelligence-led and not indiscriminate, adding that it took place in one of the most active insurgent corridors in the North-East. According to him, the area had long been classified as a high-risk zone with restricted civilian access.
The minister described the Jilli axis, locally known as “Kasu Daulaye” (the terrorists’ market), as an insurgent-controlled enclave used by Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives for levies, logistics, and coordination of attacks.
He also cited the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu on April 12, who allegedly confessed to transporting funds and supplies between Jilli and other locations, as further evidence of ongoing terrorist activity in the area.
Idris referenced Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum, who confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets were shut five years ago due to insurgent control, describing the location as a known terrorist hub. He added that the Bindul–Jilli axis had repeatedly been identified as a major terrorist corridor linked to past attacks and IED incidents.
According to him, the April 11 strike followed weeks of surveillance, with the Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army confirming the presence of terrorist elements before the operation was executed to disrupt supply lines and degrade insurgent capability.
The Federal Government announced that it has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident to review intelligence, targeting, and execution, while pledging accountability where necessary. It also said operational safeguards will be strengthened in collaboration with the Borno and Yobe State Governments, NEMA, and SEMA to provide humanitarian support to affected families.
Idris urged civilians to adhere strictly to security advisories, avoid restricted areas, and cooperate with security agencies. He also cautioned against misinformation, warning that unverified reports could undermine national security efforts.
He further referenced recent convictions of 386 terrorism suspects out of 508 cases at the Federal High Court in Abuja, along with the publication of 48 individuals and entities linked to terrorism financing.
The minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to defeating terrorism and banditry, stressing that it would not allow the incident to weaken national resolve or the mission of the Armed Forces.
