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  • NAF revives aircraft grounded for 23 years

    NAF revives aircraft grounded for 23 years

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) engineers and technicians have reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft grounded for 23 years.

    This remarkable achievement showcases the expertise and capabilities of NAF engineers and technicians, demonstrating their ability to restore complex aircraft to airworthy condition.

    The achievement also demonstrates that the NAF’s investment in training its engineers and technicians has paid off, as they were able to apply their skills and expertise to restore the aircraft to airworthy condition.

    The aircraft, originally designated “5N-MPS” and operated by the now defunct Ministry of Mines, Power, and Steel, had been grounded at the DANA facility in Kaduna since 2001, NAF’s spokesman, Air Vice Marshal Olusola F Akinboyewa, said in a statement on Wednesday.

    “However, sequel to a Presidential Directive for Ministries, Departments, and Agencies to transfer such grounded platforms to the NAF for evaluation and possible reactivation, the NAF initiated this project,” he said.

    “The NAF took on the challenge of reactivating this aircraft, a Dash 201 Series with only 1,081 flight hours since new, considering the task a unique opportunity to restore a valuable national asset. The reactivation process, for the grounded aircraft – redesignated 

    According to the NAF spokesman, the reactivation process was conducted between June and September 2024, and involved “meticulous planning and painstaking execution by a crack team of five engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group (Engr Gp), Kaduna.”

    Akinboyewa said reactivation of the aircraft 

    required the application of advanced engineering techniques and adherence to stringent aviation standards, and attests to the NAF’s growing technical expertise and resolute determination. 

    He said: “The success of this project carries significant strategic implications, bearing in mind that, beyond enhancing the NAF’s fleet, it symbolises the Service’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in aviation maintenance for operational effectiveness.

    Read Also: NAF to use social activities to foster unity, boost personnel morale

    “ It also serves as a morale booster for the NAF engineers and technicians, showcasing their ability to undertake complex projects which otherwise would be outsourced to foreign entities.”

    The NAF’s spokesman said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had hailed the 431 Engr Gp for their dedication, and emphasised the broader import of the achievement. 

    “He noted that the project reflects NAF’s resolve to optimize resources, strengthen its fleet, and uphold national security through operational excellence. 

    “The successful reactivation of NAF 039 is not just an operational gain; it is a statement of our capabilities and our commitment to self-reliance,” the NAF boss said. 

  • Defence headquarters clarifies airstrikes in Sokoto villages 

    Defence headquarters clarifies airstrikes in Sokoto villages 

    The Defence Headquarters has explained the situation regarding the military airstrikes in Sokoto state that allegedly killed 10 civilians. 

    According to the military high command, the airstrikes were indeed targeted at the Lakurawa terrorists group and their logistics base, but unfortunately, a secondary explosion occurred, which led to the loss of lives of some villagers. 

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has also announced that it would investigate the incident, which was a good step towards ensuring that such mistakes don’t happen in the future. 

    Both the DHQ and the NAF have emphasized that all military operations are based on thorough intelligence and reconnaissance missions to minimize harm to civilians.

    The NAF spokesperson, Air Vice Marshal Olusola Akinboyewa, assured that the reports of possible harm to civilians would be thoroughly investigated, and they will update the public accordingly.

    The military high command spoke through the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj.-Gen. Edward Buba, during a press conference at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja, on Friday.

    While giving updates on the airstrikes that was carried out on December 25, Gen. Buba said: “The air strike indeed hit the logistic base of the terrorist which led to secondary explosions and it was these secondary explosions that led to some casualties that was earlier reported.”

    The defence spokesman explained that prior to the operation on December 25, there was confirmed and heightened terrorist activities in the area. He said as a result “a sustained intelligence, surveillance, recognizance was conducted for an extended period of time to confirm the presence of the terrorists hibernating there and to also make sure that those in that location were indeed terrorists.”

    Gen. Buba explained that because of the painstaking measures, the operation which should have taken place on an earlier date, had to be rescheduled to the December 25 when that operation was conducted. 

    He said the operation was planned as a joint effort to leverage the air component’s precision strike capability and the land component’s ability of having the boots on the ground.

    Read Also: Why Fed Govt proposed N4.91tr for security, defence in 2025 plan

    He explained further that the operation started with pre-operational intelligence, surveillance, and recognition missions to confirm the terrorist activities within the general area.

    “Thereafter, human intelligence was deployed and their reports corroborated the intelligence, surveillance, and recognition findings, emphasizing the strategic importance of neutralizing the location,” Gen. Buba said.

    “Having confirmed, aircrafts were dispatched to conduct precision air strikes on the identified hideouts at about 0600 hours on that day. 

    “The strike was executed with precision-guided munitions to minimize collateral damage. The land component was tactically deployed at blocking positions around the target location to prevent the escape of the Lakurawa terrorist groups, as well as to provide immediate post-strike assessment and follow-up actions. Following the air strikes, ground forces moved into the area to assess the strike’s impact. 

    “The ground forces confirmed that the hideout was successfully neutralized with minimal damage observed in the surrounding villages. The ground forces interacted with the locals in the area and confirmed the presence of the Lakurawa terrorists in that general area. 

    “The ground forces also confirmed that the air strikes achieved its primary objective of neutralizing the Lakurawa terrorist group’s hideout. 

    “The destruction of the key infrastructure of the terrorist groups was also confirmed, as well as the effectiveness of the strike was confirmed by the ground forces that were on site. Surviving Lakurawa terrorist group’s combatants fled the area immediately after the strike, particularly as they had better knowledge or familiarity of the terrain. Others among them were neutralised. 

    “Locals confirmed that the Lakurawa terrorists stayed in the village and used the general area as a staging area for the conduct of their operations. 

    “Also, intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance as well as human intelligence reports prior to the operation consistently indicated the hideout was a high concentration terrorist location.”

    The defence spokesman, however, admitted that the air strike at the end of the day had minor impact on the surrounding villages. He said while the neutralized Lakurawa terrorist were burnt indeed beyond recognition because they were hit directly by the strike, he added that the terrorists were known to blend within the local populace. 

    “We knew about this and it is for this reason that we painstakingly made sure that we minimized civilian casualty in this strike and because the terrorists blend among the civil populace, it is often difficult to differentiate friend from foe. In summarizing, I would say that troops target terrorists and not innocent citizens,” Gen. Buba said.

  • NAF, Zinox Technologies explore strategic partnership

    NAF, Zinox Technologies explore strategic partnership

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is exploring a strategic partnership with Zinox Technologies, Africa’s foremost integrated ICT solutions company. The partnership is with a view to exploring avenues to partner to strengthen the Air Force’s operational and technological infrastructure.

    According to company sources, a high-level delegation from NAF, led by Air Vice Marshall (AVM) SK Usman, Chief of Communications Information Systems (CCIS), paid a working visit to the ICT powerhouse in Lagos.

    The delegation included notable figures such as Strategic Consultant on Communication, Dr. Asogbon, Air Commodore Isah, Commander of the 041 CIS Dep, Air Commodore AI Hanidu, Director of Information Technology, Air Commodore HC Usman, Director of Electronic Warfare, Squadron Leader Bilawu, and Group Captain Oloretore, Commander of the 641 CIS Group.

    During the visit, NAF representatives commended Zinox Technologies for its significant contributions to technological development across Africa.

    Read Also: NAFDAC raids Abia’s notorious home of fake, adulterated beverages

    They emphasized the importance of collaboration in addressing critical needs, including the localization and implementation of robust data storage solutions at NAF headquarters and nationwide offices to ensure data security and accessibility, as well as deploying intelligent and advanced video surveillance systems to enhance security and operational efficiency.

    Additionally, the discussions also centred around providing reliable and efficient alternative power solutions to support critical operations and establishing and equipping annex facilities to meet the NAF’s growing data storage and processing requirement. Both parties also proposed solutions to support the development of various data centres for the Air Force. These discussions underscored Zinox’s capability to meet NAF’s complex requirements, leveraging its experience and innovative technology offerings to enhance national security operations.

    Zinox Technologies, known for its pioneering role in the African tech industry, has a proven track record and a rich history of impactful projects across Nigeria and the continent. The company has been instrumental in driving digital transformation initiatives, providing cutting-edge IT solutions, and supporting numerous sectors with innovative tech products.

    The tech company has executed several transformative initiatives, including Africa’s largest ICT voter registration rollout and e-education and e-health projects in Nigeria. Zinox holds prestigious certifications such as the Microsoft Windows Hardware Quality Lab Certification and ISO 9001:2000. Zinox’s commitment to technological advancement has earned them a reputation as a leader in the African tech ecosystem, making them a trusted partner for the NAF’s ambitious projects.

    By partnering with Zinox, the NAF aims to leverage indigenous cutting-edge technology to enhance its operational capabilities and contribute to the overall development of the Nigerian Air Force. This collaboration highlights Zinox’s unwavering commitment to leveraging technology to support Nigeria’s growth and development.

  • 61 aircraft to join NAF fleet next year

    61 aircraft to join NAF fleet next year

    • Air chief: it’s our golden era

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is set to receive not less than 61 aircraft next year in a momentous build-up of the country’s aerial security capability.

    The NAF had received 12 aircraft in the past 12 months and is also expecting delivery of three additional aircraft before the end of this year. These supplies brought brand new aircraft acquired by the NAF in about three years to 64.

    Chief of Air Staff Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar made this known in Abuja yesterday.

    Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru attributed the successes so far recorded against terrorists and other non-state actors to the growing air assets and platforms, leadership and resilience of Airforce.

    They spoke at the NAF Operations, Training, and Safety Seminar in Abuja. NAF also winged 28 combat pilots, honoured war commanders, and launched its Safety Management System (SMS) manual. at the event.

    Badaru noted that Air Marshal Abubakar’s leadership has been instrumental to NAF’s success, acknowledging his brilliant role.

    He said: “NAF’s ability to effectively utilise its recently acquired assets and platforms to combat terrorism and restore stability to the nation is a notable accomplishment. As you all know, the NAF’s successes can be attributed to its well-trained personnel, who operate with a strong emphasis on safety. This focus on safety is crucial, as it enables the NAF to maintain a high level of operational tempo while minimising the risk of accidents and mishaps.”

    Air Marshal  Abubakar described the current administration as the “golden era” of the NAF with the significant build-up in the country’s air assets.

    He outlined that the NAF had received 12 aircraft in the past 12 months including two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, four T-129 helicopters, and two AW-109 Trekker helicopters.

    Read Also: Tinubu departs South Africa after Bi-National event

    He added that NAF is expecting three additional aircraft, comprising two T-129 helicopters and one KA 360i aircraft, before the end of this year.

    Said he: “Next year, the NAF is also set to receive 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M-346FA aircraft, three CASA-295 aircraft and 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.

    “That is not all. In addition to these new acquisitions, we have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA. While all 12 aircraft are ready for shipping, it is anticipated that six will be restored to operable status with the remaining six used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet.

    “It is, therefore, no exaggeration to state that the Nigerian Air Force is experiencing a golden era under the current administration”.

    Abubakar noted that between January and November 2024, NAF trained 97 pilots and 16 UAV operators.

    He added that 405 airmen and 186 officers also attended various courses and seminars. Sixty-four personnel are still undergoing courses abroad.

    “Additionally, 5,474 and 1,331 personnel have completed and are undergoing various local training courses, respectively,” Abubakar said.

    He pointed out that in the area of safety, the Force achieved a commendable milestone this year by recording zero manned aircraft accidents.

    He signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau (NSIB) and the Hybrid Health, Safety, and Environment Group.

    He said the MoU was part of NAF’s efforts to further strengthen its collaborative efforts in enhancing safety standards across the aviation sector.

    Abubakar also honoured some commanders, whose “extraordinary gallantry and exceptional performance”, resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leaders and gang members in Zamfara State.

    Badaru, who was represented by Defence  Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Ibrahim Kanna, said operations and training are inter-related as one cannot solely rely on one while paying less attention to the other.

    “Indeed, the grassroots of every operational activity is training, not just training but quality and adequate training. A well-trained airman is a lethal weapon in the field of operations. Training serves as the factory that churns out the finished products that could be used for operational activities. Your work done in operations will almost be zero if you cannot produce well-trained personnel.

     “The current security dynamics of the country mandate the conduct of concurrent operational activities at all levels. So many operational theatres supported by air components have been launched in different parts of the country over the past 10 years. This implies that all hands will be on the deck to ensure the success of these operations.

     “Quality training may not be enough to execute all missions successfully, you still need the knowledge of tactics and technical understanding of the imperative of war to succeed in the field, which is why this forum is necessary and very crucial to the NAF,” Badaru said.

  • How NAF recorded successes against terrorists, by Badaru 

    How NAF recorded successes against terrorists, by Badaru 

    Defence Minister Mohammed Badaru said the combination of recently acquired air assets and platforms, the leadership and resilience of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel, as well as effective safety measures, have been instrumental in the successes recorded against terrorists and other non-state actors.

    Badaru said this on Wednesday, November 4, when he spoke as the Special Guest of Honour at this year’s NAF Operations, Training, and Safety Seminar in Abuja. 

    Represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ibrahim Kanna, the Minister said that the NAF had also made significant strides in its operations due to its emphasis on effective training and manpower development, which he said were testament to its commitment to excellence and its dedication to protecting the nation’s interests. 

    He said, “The leadership of the Chief of the Air Staff has been instrumental in the NAF’s success, and it is imperative to acknowledge his brilliant role in these achievements. 

    “The NAF’s ability to effectively utilize its recently acquired assets and platforms to combat terrorism and restore stability to the nation is a notable accomplishment. As you all know, the NAF’s successes can be attributed to its well-trained personnel, who operate with a strong emphasis on safety. This focus on safety is crucial, as it enables the NAF to maintain a high level of operational tempo while minimizing the risk of accidents and mishaps. 

    “It is noteworthy to mention that the North Eastern part of the country now enjoys relative peace and calmness owing to the selfless contributions and dedication of the men of the armed forces.”

    Badaru, however, noted that the successes wouldn’t have been possible if not for the NAF’s constant need to assess performances and identify shortcomings in its operational activities.

    He said: “I believe this is what gave birth to a forum like this, where we would rub minds and examine areas that require improvement. 

    “I am particularly impressed with the theme selected for this seminar, which is “Agile and Resilient Air Power for National Security: Enhancing Safety and Optimizing NAF Air Operations to Combat Emerging Threats”. It underscores the need to project air power in the face of national security imperatives while striving to operate within a safe environment.

    “As you all are aware, operations and training are interrelated. You cannot solely rely on one while paying less attention to the other. Indeed, the grassroots of every operational activity is training, not just training but quality and adequate training. A well-trained airman is a lethal weapon in the field of operations. Training serves as the factory that chums out the finished products that could be used for operational activities. Your work done in operations wit almost be zero if you cannot produce well-trained personnel. 

    “Similarly, operations is a crucial part of a fighting force such as the NAF. The current security dynamics of the country mandate the conduct of concurrent operational activities at all levels. So many operational theatres supported by air components have been launched in different parts of the country over the past 10 years. This implies that all hands will be on deck to ensure the successes of these operations. Quality training may not be enough to execute all missions successfully, you still need the knowledge of tactics and technical understanding of the imperative of war to succeed in the field, which is why this forum is necessary and very crucial to the NAF.”

    “Truly, some may argue that various training institutions are available to take care of that aspect, but I will tow a slightly different line by saying that while those institutions exist to serve as machinery for understanding the academics behind operations, on-field experiences as well as interactions with experienced people is essential to complement our knowledge base.”

    Read Also: NAF wings 28 combat pilots, honours war commanders, launches safety manual 

    The minister emphasized the significance of maintaining safety all in air operations, noting that safety was what binds operations and training together. 

    He said: “This Seminar is, therefore, crucial in aligning the NAF’s efforts to strengthen safety management practices, ensuring the effective and efficient delivery of air operations. 

    “You may be receiving the best of training but in an unsafe environment. Similarly, you may be conducting your operations to the best of your competence and abilities but under unsafe conditions, which you may not even realise until a mishap occurs. 

    “And when you trace the source of this mishap, you discover that it may just be one very little thing that you have been neglecting. An unsafe environment or condition can potentially set you back many years behind.” 

  • NAF wings 28 combat pilots, honours war commanders, launches safety manual 

    NAF wings 28 combat pilots, honours war commanders, launches safety manual 

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Wednesday, November 4, winged 28 pilots to man various platforms recently acquired and enhance its ongoing operations.

    The NAF also launched its first Safety Management System (SMS) manual and compendium that consolidates all aircraft accident investigation reports in the history of the NAF, airmed to enhance safety during operations.

    The two activities were conducted at this year’s NAF’s Training Operations and Safety Seminar, in Abuja.

    Speaking at the event, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, said from January to November 2024, the NAF had trained 54 Pilots abroad, 43 locally, while 16 UAV operators were also trained locally.

    He said this year the NAF trained 405 airmen and 186 officers on various courses, seminars and trips.abroad, while 64 personnel are still undergoing courses abroad.

    “Additionally, 5,474 and 1,331 personnel have completed and are undergoing various local training courses, respectively,” he said.

    In the area of safety, the NAF’s boss said the force achieved a commendable milestone this year by recording zero manned-aircraft accidents, which he said was a testament to the positive outcomes of our continued investment in safety. 

    He said: “I am also glad to announce that we conducted a comprehensive review of our safety policy, culminating in the development of our first-ever Safety Management System (SMS) manual, which I am proud to launch today. 

    “Additionally, I will be unveiling a compendium that consolidates all aircraft accident investigation reports in the history of the Nigerian Air Force. This landmark initiative, the first of its kind for the NAF, serves as a vital resource to ensure that lessons are learned, and the critical mistakes of the past are not repeated.

    “Today marks another watershed moment for the Nigerian Air Force as we welcome the Director General of the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to present the Accreditation Certificate to the NAF Air Traffic Services Training Centre (ATSTC). This certificate formally designates the centre as an Approved Training Organization (ATO), authorized to train and certify licensed air traffic controllers, flight dispatchers, and cabin crew.”

    “We deeply appreciate the NCAA’s longstanding strategic partnership with the Nigerian Air Force, which has been instrumental in advancing our shared goals.”

    Air Marshal Abubakar signed a revised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigerian Safety Investigation Bureau and the Hybrid Health, Safety, and Environment Group.

    Read Also: NAF takes delivery of 12 aircrafts in 2024, says CAS

    He said the MoU was part of NAF’s efforts to further strengthen its collaborative efforts in enhancing safety standards across the aviation sector.

    The NAF’s boss also honoured some commanders whose “extraordinary gallantry and exceptional performance led ground offensives” that resulted in the elimination of notorious bandit leaders and gang members in Zamfara State.

    Air Marshal Abubakar said: Their dedication and courage exemplify the highest ideals of service to our nation. 

    “While the entire country is grateful for their remarkable contributions, the Nigerian Air Force remains committed to recognizing, motivating, and rewarding such exemplary individuals in a manner befitting their service and sacrifice,” he added.

  • NAF takes delivery of 12 aircrafts in 2024, says CAS

    NAF takes delivery of 12 aircrafts in 2024, says CAS

    …draws new plan to enhance civilians’ protection 

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has taken delivery of 12 aircrafts in the past 12 months.

    These include two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, four T-129 helicopters, and two AW-109 Trekker helicopters.

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, announced this on Wednesday at this year’s Training Operations and Safety Seminar, in Abuja.

    Air Marshal Abubakar said the NAF is also expecting additional deliveries of three aircrafts, comprising two T-129 helicopters and one KA 360i aircraft, before the end of this year.

    According to the NAF’s boss, with these deliveries the force had received a total of 64 brand new aircraft in about three years.

    He said: “Next year, the NAF is also set to receive 10 x AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 x M-346FA aircraft, and 3 x CASA – 295 aircraft as well as 12 x AH-1Z attack helicopters.

    “That is not all. In addition to these new acquisitions, we have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA. While all 12 aircraft are ready for shipping, it is anticipated that six will be restored to operable status, with the remaining six used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet. 

    “It is therefore no exaggeration to state that the Nigerian Air Force is experiencing a golden era under the current administration.

    Read Also: NAF kills terrorists, destroys gun-truck in Borno

    “It is a fact that under the leadership of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Air Force has witnessed a remarkable renaissance, evident in the renewal of our aircraft fleet and enhanced operational readiness.”

    Air Marshal Abubakar assured that he and his team would continue to uphold the trust reposed on them by the President, and continue to consolidate on the operational gains made by the NAF so far.

    He said: “Indeed, a review of our key performance indicators shows that, between June 2023 and September 2024, the Nigerian Air Force conducted 8,665 missions in 9,928 sorties within 15,915 flying hours. This underscores the magnitude of the relentless efforts of our personnel in all theatres of operations including Operation Hadin Kai, Fansan Yamma, Delta Safe, Safe Haven, Awa Tse, Udo Ka and Whirl Stroke.”

    The CAS hailed Air Component Commanders for their “exceptional leadership and outstanding performance,” and charged them to build on the successes and strive for greater excellence, “particularly with the anticipated induction of new platforms in the coming weeks and months.”

    He also charged them to leverage the new technologies that come with the platforms “to make the ungoverned places smaller, as you extend the long arm of the law, to bring justice to terrorists and insurgents wherever they may be hiding, while simultaneously protecting innocent civilians.”

    The NAF’s boss noted the significance of building trust among the populace to the success of operations, hence “under my leadership, the NAF has instituted robust measures to uphold the highest standards of human rights, reaffirming our unwavering commitment to protecting and serving the nation.”

    He said: “Some of these protective measures include strict adherence to the Air Targeting Cycle and Use of Precision-guided Munitions.  

    “Additionally, we have continued to work with international stakeholders like the United States Air Force and British Military Advisory and training team (BMATT) to introduce new tactics, techniques and procedures for improved air/ground integration. 

    “Furthermore, I recently gave my approval for a committee of officers to draw up the Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response-Action Plan to improve our capacity to manage and mitigate civilian harm resulting from air operations.”

  • NAF kills terrorists, destroys gun-truck in Borno

    NAF kills terrorists, destroys gun-truck in Borno

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets have killed several terrorists and destroyed a gun-truck in Kukawa, Borno State.

    The terrorists were killed in two separate operations on November 25.

    NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, announced this in a statement yesterday.

    Akinboyewa said: “In the first, NAF fighter jets destroyed a gun-truck and neutralized several fighters, while the second was to provide close air support to repel an attack on our ground troops.

    “The first operation began with credible intelligence on the location of a terrorists’ gun truck, approximately five kilometers west of Kukawa. NAF fighter jets swiftly responded, acquiring and attacking the target with precision, destroying the gun truck and crippling the terrorists’ capacity.

    Read Also: NAF’s success deeply rooted in professionalism, discipline, says CAS 

    “In the second operation, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) responded to a distress call from ground troops in Kukawa, who were under intense attack by terrorists on motorcycles. The NAF air assets rapidly responded, engaging the terrorists at various intervals. The strike neutralized many terrorists, and our ground troops recovered over 20 abandoned motorcycles.

    “Following the strike, ground troops are capitalizing on the momentum, pursuing wounded and fleeing terrorists.”

  • NAF strikes kill terrorists, destroy gun truck in Borno

    NAF strikes kill terrorists, destroy gun truck in Borno

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets have killed several terrorists and destroyed a guntruck in Kukawa, Borno state.

    The terrorists were killed in two separate operations on November 25.

    NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, announced this in a statement on Wednesday, November 27.

    Akinboyewa said: “In the first, NAF fighter jets destroyed a gun truck and neutralized several fighters, while the second was to provide close air support to repel an attack on our ground troops.

    “The first operation began with credible intelligence on the location of a terrorists’ gun truck, approximately 5 kilometers west of Kukawa. NAF fighter jets swiftly responded, acquiring and attacking the target with precision, destroying the gun truck and crippling the terrorists’ capacity.

    Read Also: NAF’s success deeply rooted in professionalism, discipline, says CAS 

    “In the second operation, the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) responded to a distress call from ground troops in Kukawa, who were under intense attack by terrorists on motorcycles. The NAF air assets rapidly responded, engaging the terrorists at various intervals. The strike neutralized many terrorists, and our ground troops recovered over 20 abandoned motorcycles. 

    “Following the strike, ground troops are capitalizing on the momentum, pursuing wounded and fleeing terrorists.” 

  • NAF kills terrorist commanders, fighters in Lake Chad Basin

    NAF kills terrorist commanders, fighters in Lake Chad Basin

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets have killed terrorists and their foot soldiers in the Tumbuns area of the Lake Chad Basin.

    The strikes also destroyed the terrorists food depot during the operation that was conducted on November 23,

    NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, in a statement yesterday said  the operation’s success was made possible by extensive Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions conducted over several days, confirming the presence of active terrorist structures camouflaged under dense vegetation.

    Read Also: MTEF/FSP: How removing fuel subsidy, floating exchange rate curbed sudden wealth– Edun

    Akinboyewa said: “This strategic location, identified through meticulous intelligence efforts, served as a critical food storage site and a sanctuary for terrorist commanders and fighters. Intelligence had previously linked terrorists in this location to recent attacks, including the assault on troops in Kareto on 16 November 2024.

    “In response, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets launched a robust air interdiction mission, destroying identified structures used as storage facilities and neutralising terrorists on-site. Mop-up operations using cannons ensured the complete elimination of fleeing hostile elements.

    “The destruction of the terrorist enclave, including food storage facilities, severely disrupted their logistical operations, while the neutralization of a significant number of fighters diminished their capacity to launch future attacks.”