Government insists Jilli market airstrike was deliberate

Wednesday, April 15, 2026 - The Federal Government has said that the Jilli Market airstrike was deliberate and not indiscriminate.

Recall that on 11 April 2026, the Nigerian Air Force, under Operation HADIN KAI, carried out a counter-terrorism airstrike in the area but it was reported that innocent citizens were killed.

But the Nigerian government has said the attack was launched on confirmed terrorist targets in the Jilli axis, Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.

The Federal Government reiterated that the attack was a deliberate, intelligence-led operation, not an indiscriminate attack, conducted in one of the most active insurgent corridors in the North-East.

“The area had been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence,” a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said.

However, the government also said it has extended condolences to the families of those affected and sympathises with the injured.

“Every Nigerian life is sacred, and any loss of civilian life is deeply regretted,” the statement added.

It went on to explain that the operation followed sustained intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

“The Jilli axis, locally known as “Kasu Daulaye” (the terrorists’ market), has long functioned as an insurgent-controlled enclave,” it said.

“Intelligence confirmed that Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives used the area to collect levies, procure supplies, and coordinate attacks.

“This assessment was reinforced on 12 April 2026, when troops apprehended a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu. He admitted moving funds and logistics between Jilli and other locations, highlighting the depth of terrorist activity in the area and the exploitation of civilians, including minors.”

The statement added that the Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum also confirmed that Jilli and Gazabure markets had been officially closed five years ago due to insurgent control, describing the area as a known hub for terrorist operations.

According to the statement, the development aligns with intelligence that informed the strike.

“The Bindul–Jilli axis has consistently been identified as a major terrorist corridor. In January 2026, troops suffered casualties from an IED attack along the route, while coordinated attacks in Ngamdu and Benisheikh on 9 April were linked to the same network. The 11 April strike followed weeks of surveillance in response to escalating threats.”

The government explained that after a rigorous targeting process, the Nigerian Air Force, working with the Nigerian Army, confirmed the presence of terrorist elements and executed the strike to disrupt supply lines and degrade insurgent capacity.

Meanwhile, the statement said the Federal Government has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident.

“This will review intelligence, targeting, and execution, and we will address any gaps and ensure accountability where needed. The protection of civilian lives remains a core obligation of the Armed Forces.”

The government said it is working with the Borno and Yobe governments, as well as NEMA and SEMA, to provide humanitarian support to affected families. Operational safeguards will also be strengthened.

Civilians were urged to strictly observe security advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security agencies.