In a decisive move to combat terrorism on the African continent, General James B. Hecker, Commander of U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Africa (USAFE-AFAFRICA), announced an escalation of airstrikes targeting Boko Haram and other terrorist organizations. Speaking at the 2025 African Air Chiefs Symposium in Lusaka, Zambia, General Hecker emphasized the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to supporting African nations in their fight against extremism.
“We will continue to go after terrorist organizations like ISIS and Boko Haram to degrade their capability to wreak havoc,” General Hecker stated during a digital press briefing.
This announcement underscores the U.S. military’s strategic focus on enhancing regional security through collaborative efforts with African air forces. The African Air Chiefs Symposium serves as a platform to strengthen partnerships and develop collective strategies to address the evolving threat of terrorism.
The U.S. has a history of supporting African nations in counterterrorism initiatives. Notably, in 2017, the U.S. facilitated the sale of 12 A-29 Super Tucano aircraft to Nigeria, a deal valued at $497 million, aimed at bolstering Nigeria’s capacity to combat Boko Haram and ISIS West Africa.
General Hecker’s remarks reaffirm the U.S. Air Force’s dedication to disrupting terrorist networks and enhancing the security landscape across Africa.
