We’ve driven Boko Haram out of Nigeria — NAF

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) yesterday said that it has destroyed suspected Boko Haram hideouts following a raid in some parts of Borno state, forcing the insurgents to neighbouring countries.
Spokesman for the 79 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force, Squadron Leader Chris Erondu, said this in a statement in Maiduguri, the state capital, adding that the raid was carried out after surveillance in the areas.
He said: “Sequel to intelligence reports, the 79 Composite Group, in conjunction with 75 Strike Group, Yola, carried out air surveillance interdiction and raid on identified Boko Haram hideouts.
“The operation was conducted in Bulabulim, Yujiwa, Alagarno, all located around Damboa axis of Borno state.
“The results of these air operations have been remarkable as the insurgents have retreated to neighbouring countries of Cameroun, Chad and Niger Republic and have suffered heavy casualties.
“The groups have also maintained constant security watch on Maiduguri and neighbouring communities to prevent future attack”.
Erondu said recent attacks and sacking of many communities in Borno state had resulted in a lot of air bombardment and destruction of hideouts of the insurgents.
He said the Air Force was increasingly committed in the current fight against them, not only in the state, but also the country in general.
He said  in line with the NAF’s task to restore normalcy in the city of Maiduguri, the 79 Composite Group had, in a couple of weeks, been providing air support to its sister security agency of the ‘Operation  Zaman Lafiya’ in the metropolis and its environs.