The Nigerian Air Force confirmed that its air dominance and intelligence gathering were crucial in recovering kidnapped students from the Government Day Secondary School in Lassa, Borno State. Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the spokesperson for the Nigerian Air Force, noted that the incident occurred on Monday as students were sitting for their NECO examinations.
Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Chief of the Air Staff, praised the rapid use of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance resources. He explained that these assets hindered the attackers’ movements, providing ground forces the opportunity to intercept the insurgents and free the captives. Aneke highlighted this event as a prime example of how integrated intelligence and joint operations safeguard civilians.
Commending the personnel involved in Operation HADIN KAI, Aneke acknowledged the sacrifice of a soldier and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force who lost their lives during the mission. Paul Namaske, a vice principal at the school and one of the victims, reported that the appearance of military aircraft caused the assailants to retreat, which allowed both students and teachers to flee to safety as ground troops moved in.
