The Nigerian Air Force has commenced an investigation into reports that an airstrike conducted on Saturday, April 11, 2026, may have affected a local market in Jilli, Borno State, allegedly resulting in civilian casualties.

In a statement on Sunday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Ehimen Ejodame, the NAF said it takes all reports of possible civilian harm with “utmost seriousness and empathy,” stressing that the protection of innocent lives remains central to its operations. According to the statement, the Chief of the Air Staff has directed the immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell to proceed to the location on a fact-finding mission to ascertain the veracity of the allegations.

“The Service treats all reports of possible civilian harm with the utmost seriousness and empathy, as the protection of innocent lives remains central to all NAF operations. In line with this commitment, the CAS has directed an immediate activation of the Civilian Harm Accident and Investigation Cell to immediately proceed to the location on a fact-finding mission on the allegation,” the statement read.

The NAF reiterated its commitment to professionalism, accountability, and transparency, noting that it would collaborate with relevant authorities and community representatives during the investigation. While the probe is ongoing, the Air Force urged the public and the media to refrain from speculation and allow the review process to proceed without prejudice.

The development follows reports that at least 30 people are feared killed after a military airstrike struck a weekly market at Jilli village, located along the border between Borno and Yobe states, on Saturday evening. A councillor in the area, Lawan Zannah, confirmed the casualty figures, while the Special Adviser to the Yobe State Governor on Security Matters confirmed the incident.