Mohammed Idris, minister of information and national orientation, says the federal government has ordered an independent investigation into the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) air strike on Jilli market in the Gubio LGA of Borno state.
The air strike, which occurred on Sunday, reportedly hit the market located between Gubio and Geidam LGAs of Yobe and Borno states, killing several civilians and leaving many others injured.
Amnesty International said over 100 people were killed during the operation.
However, the military said the air strike targeted suspected Boko Haram insurgents in the area.
In a statement on Tuesday, Idris said the federal government is committed to establishing the circumstances surrounding the incident, including the intelligence used, the targeting process, and execution of the operation.
“The federal government has ordered a full and independent investigation into the incident. This will review intelligence, targeting, and execution, and we will address any gaps and ensure accountability where needed,” the statement reads.
The minister said while the operation was intelligence-led and aimed at degrading terrorist capacity, the government “regrets any loss of civilian life” and considers every Nigerian life sacred.
He said the Jilli axis—locally referred to as “Kasu Daulaye”—has for years served as a stronghold for Boko Haram and ISWAP operatives, who allegedly use the area for logistics, funding and coordination of attacks.
He also said intelligence reports and field assessments indicated sustained terrorist activities in the corridor, as well as the arrest of a 15-year-old ISWAP courier in Ngamdu on April 12, who allegedly admitted to moving supplies between Jilli and other locations.
According to him, the findings point to the exploitation of civilians, including minors, by insurgent groups operating in the area.
Idris further referenced confirmation by Babagana Zulum, governor of Borno, that Jilli and Gazabure markets were closed years ago due to insurgents’ control, describing the area as a known terrorist enclave.
He said the Bindul–Jilli axis has repeatedly featured in security incidents, including improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and coordinated assaults on troops in recent months.
The minister said the air force, working alongside the army, had verified terrorist presence in the location after weeks of surveillance before carrying out the strike.
He said the government is also working with the Borno and Yobe state governments, as well as the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) and State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), to provide humanitarian assistance to victims.
The minister said Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts have continued to record significant progress, noting that Lateef Fagbemi, the attorney-general of the federation and minister of justice, disclosed that 386 convictions were secured from 508 terrorism-related cases.
He said the convictions, involving Boko Haram and ISWAP suspects, demonstrate the government’s resolve to hold terror suspects accountable.
Idris said the federal government remains committed to defeating terrorism through “precision, accountability and sustained action” while ensuring that civilian protection remains a priority in all military operations.
He urged residents in conflict-affected communities to comply with security advisories and avoid restricted zones, warning that such areas remain highly volatile.
He also cautioned against unverified reports on the incident, warning that inaccurate information could undermine security operations and aid terrorist propaganda.
“Civilians are urged to strictly observe security advisories, avoid restricted zones, and cooperate with security agencies. Public cooperation is essential in conflict areas,” Idris said.
