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Tag: NAF

  • NAF airstrike on bandits’ enclave excites Katsina govt

    NAF airstrike on bandits’ enclave excites Katsina govt

    The Katsina State Government has lauded the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), for a successful airstrike that targeted a known bandit’s enclave in Ruwan-Godiya District, Faskari Local Government Area.

    A statement by the State Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Dr Nasir Mua’zu, yesterday in Katsina, observed that the operation demonstrated NAF’s unwavering commitment to protecting civilians and safeguarding lives and property in the region.

    Muazu revealed that the operation, conducted by the air component of Operation “FARAUTAR MUJIYA”, the precision strike significantly degraded criminal elements’ operational capacity.

    Read Also: NAF airstrikes dismantle bandits’ strongholds in Kaduna neutralise several terrorists

    The commissioner explained that the strike underscored the NAF’s professional approach to combating security threats using local intelligence.

    “We commend the Nigerian Air Force for their exceptional performance and strategic intervention. This operation represents a critical step in restoring peace and security to our communities,” he said.

    Mua’zu, therefore, urged residents to remain vigilant and supportive to ongoing security efforts in the fight against banditry and other crimes.

    He further reaffirmed the commitment of government to collaborating with the military and other security agencies in maintaining regional stability.

  • NAF airstrikes kill terrorists, destroy armoury in Niger

    NAF airstrikes kill terrorists, destroy armoury in Niger

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets have killed several terrorists in Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    The strikes also destroyed notorious bandits’ leader Mallam Saleh, armoury, and residents in the area.

    NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, who announced this in a statement on Monday, November 18, said the bandits were killed in an operation conducted on Saturday, November 16.

    He said Saleh was a loyalist of Dogo Gide, another notorious terrorist in the area.

    According to Akinboyewa, Saleh’s reign of terror had plagued vulnerable communities in Shiroro, with attacks, abductions, and extortion leaving a trail of fear.

    “However, the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA had been tracking his movements, gathering crucial intel to dismantle his operations,” Akinboyewa said.

    Read Also: NAF airstrikes dismantle bandits’ strongholds in Kaduna neutralise several terrorists

    “As NAF aircraft swooped in, terrorists on motorcycles were spotted in the target area. With swift and precise action, the NAF assets unleashed devastating strikes, obliterating the weapons cache and dealing a crushing blow to the terrorists.

    “A secondary explosion confirmed the destruction of the munitions, crippling Saleh’s capabilities,” he added.

  • NAF strikes kill bandit leaders, key loyalists in Zamfara

    NAF strikes kill bandit leaders, key loyalists in Zamfara

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets have killed several bandits, including key loyalists of infamous bandit leaders, Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule, in Zamfara State.

    The bandits were killed after a NAF intelligence report revealed an assembly of bandits in Babban Kauye village, Tsafe Local Government Area of the state.

    NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, in a statement yesterday, said the intelligence revealed that the congregation of criminals was ‘perfecting plans for coordinated attacks against military personnel or civilians along the Tsafe axis’.

    He said: “Upon receiving credible intelligence, the NAF launched a series of devastating airstrikes, inflicting significant casualties on the criminal elements.

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    “Reports from the ground confirmed the successful elimination of numerous high-ranking members of the bandit groups, dealing a severe blow to their operational capacity.”

    According to Akinboyewa, Tsafe Local Government Area has long been a flashpoint for bandit activities, with factions loyal to Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule notorious for orchestrating violent assaults on local communities, security forces, and vital infrastructure.

    “These groups have utilised remote settlements like Babban Kauye as strategic safe havens, from which they coordinate and execute their nefarious operations,” he noted.

  • NAF strikes kill bandit leaders, key loyalists in Zamfara 

    NAF strikes kill bandit leaders, key loyalists in Zamfara 

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets have killed several bandits, including key loyalists of infamous bandit leaders, Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule.

    The bandits were killed after a NAF intelligence report revealed an assembly of bandits in Babban Kauye village in Tsafe Local Government Area of the state.

    NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, who announced this in a statement on Sunday, stated that the Intelligence sources revealed that the congregation of criminals was “perfecting plans for coordinated attacks against military personnel or civilians along the Tsafe axis.”

    He said: “Upon receiving credible intelligence, the NAF launched a series of devastating airstrikes, inflicting significant casualties on the criminal elements. 

    “Reports from the ground confirmed the successful elimination of numerous high-ranking members of the bandit groups, dealing a severe blow to their operational capacity.”

    Read Also: NAF airstrikes dismantle bandits’ strongholds in Kaduna neutralise several terrorists

    According to Akinboyewa, Tsafe Local Government Area has long been a flashpoint for bandit activities, with factions loyal to Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule notorious for orchestrating violent assaults on local communities, security forces, and vital infrastructure. 

    “These groups have utilized remote settlements like Babban Kauye as strategic safe havens, from which they coordinate and execute their nefarious operations,” he said.

    He said the latest airstrikes “represent a robust response and support for the Theatre Command of Operation FANSAN YAMMA by the NAF, aligning with broader efforts to dismantle and completely degrade bandit networks in the region, disrupt planned attacks with a view to restoring peace and stability to the embattled Northwest.” 

  • NAF airstrikes dismantle bandits’ strongholds in Kaduna neutralise several terrorists

    NAF airstrikes dismantle bandits’ strongholds in Kaduna neutralise several terrorists

    The Air Component of “Operation Fansan Yamma” has dismantled a major bandits’ enclave located within Dunya Hill and Batauna Forest in Giwa Local Government Area of Kaduna State.

    The Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

    Akinboyewa said the strategic airstrikes were conducted on Nov. 12 in furtherance of the intense air interdiction campaign in North West nicknamed “Operation Farautar Mujiya”.

    According to him, the affected areas have long served as safe havens for bandit groups due to their dense vegetation and the natural protection provided by an array of caves.

    He said the objective of the airstrikes was to dismantle the entrenched criminal networks and degrade their capacity to operate effectively.

    Akinboyewa said the airstrikes were preceded by intensive intelligence gathering that meticulously identified high-value targets, including key logistics hubs and hidden armouries used by the bandits.

    He said that the aerial assault resulted in the neutralisation of many combatants as well as the obliteration of significant stockpiles of weapons and resources critical to the bandits’ operations.

    “Since the commencement of this intensified campaign, credible sources from local communities have confirmed that bandits are on the run, their once-secure enclaves in disarray.

    Read Also: NAF strikes kill 70 terrorists in Borno, destroy 83 illegal refineries in Niger Delta

    “In a sign of the operation’s success, multiple reports have emerged detailing the escape and liberation of several kidnap victims, who have managed to regain freedom amidst the chaos inflicted upon their captors.

    “The NAF continues to execute these precision airstrikes to incapacitate the criminal groups terrorising the Northwestern region, and provide decisive advantage for our surface forces.

    “This sustained effort not only demonstrates the Armed Forces’ commitment to restoring peace and security but also provides renewed hope to communities that have long suffered under the threat of banditry.

    “More updates on the outcomes of Operation FARAUTAR MUJIYA are expected in the coming days,” he said.

    (NAN)

  • NAF strikes kill 70 terrorists in Borno, destroy 83 illegal refineries in Niger Delta

    NAF strikes kill 70 terrorists in Borno, destroy 83 illegal refineries in Niger Delta

    Air strikes by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) jets have killed 70 terrorists at Kwallaram and Arianna Ciki islands in Borno State.

    The strikes were conducted on November 6 following credible intelligence about the terrorists presence in the areas, the Director of Defence Media Operations, Maj-Gen Edward Buba, said in a statement on Saturday, November 9.

    General Buba said that in the past week, troops on operations across the country neutralized 169 terrorists and arrested 641 criminals. 

    He said troops also recovered 192 high caliber weapons, comprising 106 AK47 rifles, 38 fabricated rifles, 26 dane guns, one FN rifle, three fabricated revolver pistol, 11 locally made pistols, five pump action guns, one dummy AK47 rifle, and one unexploded RPG bomb.

    The defence spokesman said troops recovered 2,970 ammunition, comprising 1,410 rounds of 7.62mm special ammo, 1,074 rounds of 7.62mm NATO, 67 rounds of 7.62 x 54mm, 130 rounds of 108mm, 101 rounds of 9mm ammo, and 146 live cartridges.

    Read Also: NAF launches 2024 retreat, set to induct 50 new aircrafts

    Giving updates about troops onslaught in the Niger Delta region, General Buba said troops destroyed 83 illegal refining sites and arrested 40 oil thieves.

    He said troops recovered 914,445 litres of stolen crude, 537,325 litres of diesel and 1,285 litres of petrol.

    “Other items recovered and destroyed are 20 crude oil cooking ovens, two dugout pits, 42 boats, seven reservoirs, five drums, 50 storage tanks, three pumping machines, one speedboat, and 8 motorcycles, among others,” Gen. Buba said.

    He said troops would continue to sustain offensive operations to eliminate all threats to the nation’s peace and security. 

  • NAF hails FIRS boss for ‘unprecedented’ revenue growth

    NAF hails FIRS boss for ‘unprecedented’ revenue growth

    The Nationalist Front of Africa (NFA) has commended the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), Dr. Zacch Adedeji, for his outstanding leadership and achievements in Nigeria’s tax management and administration.

    Under Dr. Adedeji’s leadership, the group said the FIRS achieved record-breaking revenue growth of 12.36 trillion Naira in 2023, surpassing its target.

    In a statement by Moses Idoko, the group said his innovative approach has introduced significant reforms, positioning Nigeria’s tax system among the most progressive on the continent.

    He said: “Dr. Adedeji’s focus on technology integration has transformed FIRS into a model for efficient revenue generation. The introduction of the TaxPro Max system, which has enhanced efficiency and reduced manual work by 80%, is a testament to his vision,” the statement said. 

    “This digital platform enables taxpayers to file returns, pay taxes, and access essential services from the comfort of their homes or offices. Furthermore, Dr. Adedeji has established a strong data management unit within FIRS, ensuring precise planning and execution.

    “His commitment to educating the public on tax compliance has also yielded significant results, fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.”

    The group also said the FIRS boss has also introduced progressive reforms, addressing longstanding issues in Nigeria’s tax framework.

    The statement noted that his leadership has clarified guidelines for crypto transactions, simplifying tax reporting for digital asset transactions.

    The statement added Adedeji has streamlined the Withholding Tax framework, removing bottlenecks that once hindered efficient tax collection.

    It stressed: “Dr. Adedeji’s anti-corruption stance has been equally impressive. He established an Anti-Corruption and Transparency Unit within FIRS, collaborating with the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) to maintain standards and prevent malpractice.

    “The NFA applauds Dr. Adedeji’s commitment to fairness, transparency, and anti-corruption policies. His leadership has rekindled confidence in Nigeria’s tax system, demonstrating his aspiration for a tax authority that is reliable and untainted.”

    The organisation urged Dr. Adedeji to continue his exemplary leadership, building on FIRS’s success to secure Nigeria’s economic future.

    “What Dr. Adedeji has done for Nigeria’s tax administration is enormous; it touches so many aspects of what’s done in Nigeria today, “ Idoko said. 

    “He has pretty much changed the narrative on how the tax sector and the economy should be for Nigeria.”

  • NAF appoints Akinboyewa as new spokesman

    NAF appoints Akinboyewa as new spokesman

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has approved the appointment of Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa as the new Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI) and spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by the Deputy Director of Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru, said Air Commodore Akinboyewa took over from Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who has been redeployed to NAF’s Civil-Military Relations Branch as the Director of Coordination and Cooperation.

    The statement said: “This strategic realignment is part of the NAF’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its public and community engagement functions, while also ensuring a more robust and effective interface with the general public and stakeholders.

    Read Also: FG sets up task forces to boost aviation sector through PPPs

    “As the new spokesperson, Air Commodore Akinboyewa, is expected to continue in the footsteps of his predecessor by overseeing NAF’s media engagements, strategic communications, and information dissemination, while building perception, maintaining transparency and further enhancing public trust and confidence.”

    Air Commodore Akinboyewa is a member of the 43rd Regular Combatant Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA) and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the NDA and a Master’s degree in Security and Strategic Studies from the same institution.

    Until his appointment, he was the Commandant of NAF’s Air Traffic Services Training Centre, Kaduna.

  • JUST IN: NAF appoints Air Commodore Akinboyewa as new spokesman

    JUST IN: NAF appoints Air Commodore Akinboyewa as new spokesman

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, has approved the appointment of Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa as the new Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI) and spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    According to a statement by Deputy Director Public Relations and Information, Group Captain Kabiru, ,on Tuesday, October 8, Air Commodore Akinboyewa would take over from Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, who has been redeployed to NAF’s Civil-Military Relations Branch, as Director of Coordination and Cooperation.

    The statement said: “This strategic realignment is part of the NAF’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its public and community engagement functions, while also ensuring a more robust and effective interface with the general public and stakeholders. 

    Read Also: NAF officer wins best student award at British military college

    “As the new Spokesperson, Air Commodore Akinboyewa is expected to continue in the footsteps of his predecessor by overseeing NAF’s media engagements, strategic communications, and information dissemination, while building perception, maintaining transparency and further enhancing public trust and confidence.”

    Air Commodore Akinboyewa is a member of the 43rd Regular Combatant Course of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the NDA, and a Masters Degree in Security and Strategic Studies from the same institution.

    Until his appointment he was the Commandant of NAF’s Air Traffic Services Training Centre, Kaduna.

  • NAF officer wins best student award at British military college

    NAF officer wins best student award at British military college

    Nigerian is first African to win the award

    An officer of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Flying Officer David Sangokoya, has won the International Cadet Sword of Honour from the Royal Air Force College Cranwell in the United Kingdom (UK).

    He received the award for outstanding performance as the top international student and overall best performer in the Leadership and Training Course for the 2023-2024 academic year.

    With this award, Flying Officer Sangokoya made history as the first cadet from Africa to receive the prestigious honor since the academy’s inception over a century ago.

    During the commendation ceremony in honour of the Flying Officer at the NAF Headquarters yesterday in Abuja, the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, described the achievement as “truly ground-breaking”.

    He said: “This feat underscores the excellence existing within the Nigerian Air Force, proving that our officers and cadets can stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the world.”

    Read Also: Insecurity: 250 Nigerian Army captains begin promotion examination

    Abubakar said Sangokoya had set a new standard, not just for his peers but for every other cadet and officer that will come after him.

    According to him, the officer’s accomplishment is a “powerful” reminder that no goal is out of reach when one is armed with dedication, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.

    “Your journey as an officer has begun with this prestigious accolade. But the true measure of your success will be seen in how you serve, lead, and contribute to the mission of the Nigerian Air Force and the defence of our great nation,” Abubakar said.

    The CAS thanked the UK Government for its “unwavering support in providing world-class training opportunities to our (Nigerian) personnel”.

    He noted that the support had helped NAF officers and men to gain invaluable skills and knowledge, “strengthening not only our bilateral ties but also our collective ability to address global security challenges”.