he Nigerian Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has dismissed reports of civilian casualties following a series of precision airstrikes in Niger State, asserting that the operations successfully neutralized approximately 70 terrorists.

The military action, conducted in the early hours of Sunday, May 10, 2026, was part of a broader intensification of security operations spanning Niger, Katsina, and Kogi states.

Precision Strikes in Niger State

Major General Michael Onoja, Director of Defence Media Operations, clarified that the Nigerian Army UAV Command executed multiple airstrikes between 11:59 PM and 6:00 AM across several villages in the Shiroro Local Government Area, including Kusasu, Katerma, Bokko, and Kuduru.

The DHQ emphasized that the strikes were:

Intelligence-Driven: Based on credible reports of terrorist convergences.

Targeted: Aimed specifically at enclaves of armed groups planning attacks on civilians and military assets.

Effective: Resulting in the neutralization of 70 bandits in Kusasu alone.

While some local reports suggested civilian impact in the Guradnayi community, General Onoja refuted these claims, stating that the operations strictly adhered to the rules of engagement. Surveillance following the strikes observed survivors moving towards Zango on motorcycles and regrouping near Kopa, suggesting intent to target government infrastructure in Sarkin Pawa or Kuchi.

Gains in Katsina: Livestock Recovered and Drug Networks Dismantled

In Katsina State, troops of Operation FANSAN YAMMA recorded significant successes across several local government areas, including Matazu, Musawa, and Dutsin-Ma.

Combat Success: Following an ambush along the Matazu-Dutsin-Ma axis, three terrorists were killed. Troops recovered AK-47 rifles, ammunition, and a motorcycle.

Recovery: During clearance operations in Matazu, Musawa, and Kankia, the military recovered 175 rustled livestock, which are currently being held for return to their rightful owners.

Curbing Illicit Trade: In a joint raid with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Malumfashi, troops arrested six suspected drug dealers and seized quantities of cannabis and controlled pharmaceutical substances.

Tactical Success in Kogi State

Further south, troops of the 12 Brigade (Operation TIGER PAW II) intercepted a terrorist movement in the Adankolo Forest Reserve near Lokoja. Acting on intelligence, a Quick Response Group engaged suspects in a firefight, resulting in:

One terrorist neutralized.

Recovery of two AK-47 rifles, a locally fabricated pistol, and 145 rounds of ammunition.

Seizure of logistics items, including mobile phones, power banks, and cash.

Call for Public Cooperation

The military high command reiterated its commitment to protecting law-abiding citizens and urged the media and the public to rely on verified information. General Onoja cautioned that unverified accounts of operations could inadvertently embolden criminal elements and undermine the morale of troops on the front lines.

Exploitation operations continue in all sectors to track fleeing suspects and ensure the sustained safety of the affected regions.