By Tukur Buratai
I have followed with serious concern reports of the airstrike at Jilli Market along the Borno–Yobe border, where over fifty persons lost their lives, and many others were injured. Any loss of innocent life is deeply unfortunate and painful. However, I must state clearly that I commend the Nigerian Air Force and the intelligence community for the courage and professionalism displayed in this operation.
The strike was a targeted military action based on credible intelligence that Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists were using the weekly market at Jilli to collect illegal levies, procure supplies, and plan further attacks. The public should understand the history ofJilli Market. It has long been a notorious terrorist logistics hub.
The Nigerian Army repeatedly raided and shut it down. In 2018, during Operation LAST HOLD, our troops occupied the area and engaged in multiple clashes with insurgents. Despite several closures, the terrorists continued to operate the market with the cooperation of some individuals who patronised and supplied them. It is deeply regrettable that innocent lives may have been caught in the strike, but the sole responsibility rests with the terrorists who deliberately embed themselves within civilian spaces as human shields.
No military wishes to harm civilians, but when a market is dominated by terrorist logistics and warnings have been ignored for years, the military has a duty to act. I appeal to the people of Geidam, Gubio, Damasak, and Ngamdu to cooperate with the military. Stop patronising or supplying goods to any market where terrorists establish or frequent. Communities that continue to trade with insurgents will inevitably find themselves in harm’s way.
The armed forces deserve our support. They acted on solid intelligence and struck a legitimate target. While we mourn innocent lives lost, we must not weaken our resolve against an enemy that shows no mercy. Victory is certain with continued military action and civilian cooperation. May the souls of the departed innocent rest in peace, and may the injured recover swiftly.
Ambassador Lt Gen Tukur Buratai (rtd) CFR
Former Chief of Army Staff, Nigeria
Sunday, 12th April 2026
