The Federal Government has maintained that the airstrike on Jilli Market was a deliberate, intelligence-driven operation targeting terrorists and not an indiscriminate attack on civilians.
The Nigerian Air Force conducted the strike on April 11, 2026, under Operation HADIN KAI in the Jilli axis of Gubio Local Government Area, Borno State. Reports had emerged claiming civilian casualties in the area.
In a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government described the location as a well-known insurgent hub.
“The area had been designated a high-risk zone with clear security advisories restricting civilian presence,” the statement said.It further explained that the Jilli axis, locally known as “Kasu Daulaye” (the terrorists’ market), has long been used by Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives to collect levies, procure supplies, and coordinate attacks.
The government cited recent intelligence, including the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier, to justify the operation.
It also noted that Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum had confirmed the market was officially closed five years ago due to terrorist control.
While regretting any loss of civilian lives, the government stressed that “every Nigerian life is sacred” and announced a full independent investigation into the incident to review intelligence and targeting processes.
Humanitarian support is being coordinated with Borno and Yobe states, NEMA, and SEMA for affected families. The government urged civilians to heed security advisories and avoid restricted zones.
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