FG flags Jilli Axis as high-risk security zone

The federal government said Jilli axis where the Nigerian Air Force carried out a precision counter-terrorism strike has been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said this in a statement in Abuja on Tuesday.

Idris extended the government’s deepest condolences to the families of those affected, and sympathised with the injured.

According to him, every Nigerian life is sacred, and any loss of life is deeply regretted.

“On April 11, 2026, the Nigerian Air Force, under Operation HADIN KAI, carried out a precision counter-terrorism strike on confirmed terrorist targets in the Jilli axis, Gubio Local Government Area of Borno State.

The federal government reiterates that this 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.

“The federal government extends its deepest 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 minister said 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.

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

“This assessment was reinforced on April 12, when troops apprehended a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, Tijjani, in Ngamdu.