DHQ Denies Civilian Casualties in Niger Air Operation

On May 10, 2026, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) of Nigeria issued a statement denying allegations of civilian casualties resulting from an aerial interdiction operation in Kusasu, Shiroro Local Government Area, Niger State. Major General Michael Onoja, the Director of Media Operations, emphasized that the operation precisely targeted identified terrorist enclaves and successfully neutralized approximately seventy armed bandits.

The DHQ maintained that intelligence reports indicated the presence of armed bandits planning attacks on civilian communities and military assets in the area. Following the operation, assessments confirmed that the strike achieved its intended military objectives.

The DHQ also noted the absence of civilian movement in the area, suggesting a degradation of the criminal forces. Major General Onoja reiterated the commitment of the Nigerian Armed Forces to conduct operations aimed at addressing insecurity in the country.