Nigerian Armed Forces Conduct Coordinated Air–Ground Operation in Zamfara State

The Nigerian military has reported killing “several” bandits in a coordinated operation in Makkakari forest in Zamfara state, as air and ground forces targeted the strongholds of the armed groups. Analysts have noted the use of precision-guided munitions and ISR assets to thwart the large-scale attacks.

Location and operational context

The attacks were carried out on August 10 under Operation Fasan Yamma, a joint security effort covering the northwestern states affected by banditry. Intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) detected several hundred armed fighters congregating in Makkakari – part of the Gandho forest belt in Bukuyum Local Government Area – prompting air strikes and subsequent clearing by ground forces.

Local reports indicate that the operation was targeting known staging areas for motorcycle-mounted raiding parties, with follow-up patrols aimed at blocking escape routes.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) uses the A-29 Super Tucano aircraft in counter-insurgency (COIN) operations, particularly against groups such as Boko Haram and ISIS West Africa. The Super Tucano is a light attack and counter-insurgency aircraft known for its precision strike capabilities and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. It is a key component of the NAF’s efforts to manage internal conflicts and protect the country’s borders and exclusive economic zone. (USAF)

Official Statements and Casualty Estimates

Air Force spokesman Air Commodore Ehiman Ejodam confirmed the engagement but used the term "scores" rather than release specific casualty figures. Independent Nigerian media outlets, citing unnamed security sources, put the death toll at over 100. No details have yet been given about those captured or detained.

Possible equipment and tactics used

While the Nigerian military did not disclose specific platforms, the following have been used in previous operations of this type in the northwest:

• Nigerian Air Force Alpha Jets and Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for precision air strikes.

• Armed helicopters such as the Mi-35M for close air support during ground maneuvers.

• ISR assets – including King Air surveillance aircraft and UAVs – to identify concentrations of fighters and monitor their movements.

• Motorized infantry units equipped with mine-resistant ambush-protected (MRAP) vehicles for rapid entry into the jungle.

The choice of platform suggests a mix of precision-guided and unguided munitions, enabling attacks in dense jungle while reducing the risk to ground troops. Analysts believe that the use of ISR before an attack reflects a mature joint targeting cycle in Nigerian counter-banditry operations.

Broader security implications

The Zamfara operation coincides with a recent increase in active engagements in the northwest. In July, joint forces killed at least 30 bandits during a joint air and ground attack in Katsina. Officials see the action as essential to denying armed groups the ability to assemble in large numbers.

However, rights groups have previously raised concerns about civilian casualties during airstrikes in populated areas. Maintaining transparency in targeting processes and post-strike assessments is a key factor in maintaining public trust.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) uses Mi-35M attack helicopters in its counter-insurgency (COIN) operations, particularly against Boko Haram in the northeast. These helicopters are a key component of the NAF’s efforts to provide close air support (CAS) to ground troops. (Nigerian Air Force)

Outlook

In the coming weeks, the Monitor will monitor:

• Confirmation of high-value targets destroyed in the Mecca operation.

• Evidence of reduced operational capacity among bandit groups in Zamfara.

• Whether surviving fighters are shifting operations to neighboring states, potentially dispersing the threat.

The Nigerian Armed Forces appear to have carried out a well-coordinated joint attack using fixed-wing aircraft, armed helicopters and ISR platforms in the Makkakari forest of Zamfara. While reported casualty figures vary, the operation underscores the military’s focus on pre-emptive disruption of large-scale banditry activity – an approach that will require sustained pressure and careful monitoring to remain effective.

Key takeaways

The Nigerian armed forces appear to have carried out a well-coordinated joint attack in the Makkakari forest of Zamfara, likely using fixed-wing aircraft, armed helicopters and ISR platforms. While reported casualty figures vary, the operation underscores the military’s focus on pre-emptive disruption of large-scale banditry activity – an approach that will require sustained pressure and careful monitoring to remain effective.

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