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Tag: NAF

  • 30 terrorists neutralised in air, ground assaults in Borno

    30 terrorists neutralised in air, ground assaults in Borno

    At least 30 terrorists have been killed in a military air and ground operation at Dar-El-Jamal village in the Bama Local Government Area of Borno State. 

    The operation, conducted on September 5, followed reports of heavy terrorist engagement against friendly forces, according to the spokesman of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Saturday, September 6.

    Ejodame stated that the NAF swiftly acted on the situation report and deployed an Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and Air Interdiction (AI) mission to the area. 

    He said: “En route, the aircrew established contact with ground forces in Banki, who confirmed that reinforcements were already moving to support troops.

    Read Also: JUST IN: Over 15 terrorists die in NAF’s airstrikes in Borno

    “On arrival at Dar Jamel, the aircrew visually identified friendly forces before ISR scans revealed terrorists fleeing northwards from the town towards nearby bushes. In a series of three precise and successive strikes, the fleeing terrorists were decisively engaged, resulting in the neutralisation of over 30 insurgents. 

    “Shortly afterwards, reinforcement troops arrived at the location, secured the area, and stabilised the situation.”

    According to the NAF’s spokesman, the coordinated success highlighted the “seamless synergy between air and ground forces,” and underscored the effectiveness of joint efforts in counterterrorism operations. 

    “It also reinforces the Nigerian Armed Forces’ resolve to dismantle terrorist networks, protect vulnerable communities, and restore lasting peace to the North East and beyond,” Ejodame said. 

  • JUST IN: Over 15 terrorists die in NAF’s airstrikes in Borno

    JUST IN: Over 15 terrorists die in NAF’s airstrikes in Borno

    Over 15 terrorists were killed and key structures destroyed in the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes in Zuba, Borno State, yesterday.

    NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, who announced this in a statement Thursday morning, stated that the strikes were “carefully planned and executed.”

    According to him: “On 3 September 2025, a carefully planned and executed air interdiction mission struck a newly identified terrorist enclave west of Zuwa in the Sambisa general area. 

    “Acting on credible intelligence and confirmatory surveillance, the mission targeted hideouts harbouring fighters and commanders responsible for recent hostilities around Bitta. 

    “The strikes proved devastating, neutralising over 15 terrorists and demolishing key structures critical to their operations.”

    According to Ejodame, the latest operation further decimated the terrorists’ capability in the area and demonstrated the NAF’s precision, reach, and resolve in the fight against terrorism.

    He said it also underscored the NAF’s “unwavering commitment” to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians while supporting ground troops in joint operations to dismantle terrorist networks.

    “Every successful strike brings Nigeria one step closer to lasting peace,” Ejodame said. 

  • Banditry: NAF destroys Babaro’s base in Katsina, rescue 76 victims

    Banditry: NAF destroys Babaro’s base in Katsina, rescue 76 victims

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Has Dealt A Major Blow To The Criminal Network Of Notorious Bandit Kingpin, Babaro, With A Precision Airstrike On His Stronghold At Pauwa Hill In Kankara Local Government Area Of Katsina State.

    According To A Statement Signed By The Katsina State Commissioner For Internal Security, Nasir Muazu, The Operation, Conducted Between 6:00 P.M. And 7:00 P.M., Successfully Rescued 76 Kidnapped Victims, Including Women And Children, Who Had Been Held Captive By The Gang.

    Read Also: NAF rescues 76, destroys Babaro enclave in Katsina

    Among Those Freed Were All The Victims Abducted During The Recent Deadly Attack On Gidan Mantau In Malumfashi Local Government Area. Tragically, One Child Was Confirmed Dead During The Ordeal.

    “The Precision Air Interdiction Specifically Targeted Babaro’s Notorious Base At Pauwa Hill, Which Has Long Been A Source Of Terror To Surrounding Communities,” The Statement Read.

    The Commissioner Noted That The Breakthrough Reflects Renewed Momentum In Security Operations Across Katsina, Describing The Strike As Part Of A Wider Strategy To Dismantle Criminal Hideouts, Disrupt Bandit Networks, And Restore Confidence Among Citizens.

  • NAF rescues 76, destroys Babaro enclave in Katsina

    NAF rescues 76, destroys Babaro enclave in Katsina

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF,) has struck in its ongoing manhunt for the notorious bandit kingpin Babaro and his gang behind the recent deadly attack on Gidan Mantau in Malumfashi Local Government Area. 

    A statement by the Katsina cyommissioner for Internal Security, Nasir Muazu, said NAF carried out a decisive air operation at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area, rescuing 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.

    According to him: “The precision air interdiction, conducted between 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., specifically targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill—one of his most notorious bases that has long been a source of terror to surrounding communities. 

    ”Confirming the development, the Ministry can reveal that the rescued victims included all those abducted during the attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi. 

    “However, it was regrettably noted that one child tragically lost his life during the ordeal. 

    ”This breakthrough reflects the renewed momentum of security operations across Katsina State. 

    The strike is part of a broader strategy to dismantle criminal hideouts, weaken their networks, and put an end to the cycle of killings, kidnappings, and extortion that have plagued innocent citizens.

    ”The rescue of the kidnapped victims further underscores the effectiveness of coordinated air and ground operations, as security forces intensify their efforts to flush out bandits and restore confidence among the people.” 

  • 946 Imo residents benefit from NAF free medical surgeries 

    946 Imo residents benefit from NAF free medical surgeries 

    Not fewer than 946 residents of Imo State have benefited from free medical surgeries provided by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of its civil-military relations initiatives.

    According to NAF’s spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Thursday, the surgeries included 63 thyroidectomies, 118 gynaecological cases, 434 general surgeries, and 331 eye surgeries.

    Ejodame stated that the medical outreach covered 9,054 general cases and 2,177 eye consultations, and also included the distribution of over 1,300 eyeglasses, walking aids, and crutches to individuals with disabilities, aiming to restore hope and mobility.

    “To further deepen its impact, the programme also conducted health education sessions on preventive care, hygiene, and maternal health, ensuring long-term community benefits beyond the immediate medical support,” he said.

    According to the NAF’s spokesman, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, emphasized that the initiative is a key part of the NAF’s Civil-Military Cooperation strategy, aimed at winning the hearts and minds of citizens.

    He said, “Beyond our core mandate of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity, the Nigerian Air Force is committed to alleviating the suffering of our people, particularly in remote communities. 

    “This outreach is a testament to our philosophy of putting people first, while also bridging the gap between the military and the civilian population.”

    The Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Ibikunle Daramola, noted that the programme reflects the CAS’s vision of leveraging Civil-Military Cooperation as a strategic enabler for national development. 

    He said, “Every cataract restored, every hernia repaired, every life touched here demonstrates that the Nigerian Air Force is more than a fighting force, it is a compassionate partner in nation building. 

    “We are determined to sustain these outreach efforts as a pillar of our engagement with the Nigerian people.”

    The Project Coordinator and Facilitator, Air Vice Marshal Uche Nwagwu, commended the synergy between the NAF and local stakeholders which enabled the seamless delivery of services. 

    He stressed that the initiative highlights the power of collaboration, enabling the NAF to mobilize resources, personnel, and expertise to achieve remarkable outcomes.

    “The smiles we see today are our greatest reward, and we are committed to expanding the reach of future interventions,” he said. 


  • NAF strikes have degraded terrorists’ capabilities , says CAS

    NAF strikes have degraded terrorists’ capabilities , says CAS

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar stated that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes have significantly degraded the capabilities of violent non-state actors and disrupted their operational networks across the country.

    The Chief said this when played host to the Junior Deputy Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, Radka Konderlova, in Abuja , on Tuesday.

    Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal contributions to regional stability, emphasizing NAF’s frontline role in countering terrorism, insurgency, and violent extremism across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

    Read Also: NAFOWA launches young achievers club for teenagers in NAF bases

    He also emphasized NAF’s contributions in the maritime domain, particularly in securing critical national infrastructure and countering piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, stressing that such “engagements reinforce Nigeria’s enduring commitment to collective security across Africa and the international community.”

    The Nation reports that the NAF recorded significant feats recently, eliminating over 800 bandits and terrorists in the Northwest and Northeast region. 

    Also, 62 kidnap victims escaped from a bandit den in Katsina State after the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted airstrikes on the camp of notorious bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani in Danmusa Local Government Area.

    Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed NAF’s commitment to strengthening strategic defence cooperation with the Czech Republic as part of ongoing efforts to advance national security and regional stability.

    “This engagement could not have come at a more auspicious time, as the Nigerian Air Force continues its deliberate transformation into an agile and resilient force capable of meeting the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments,” he said.

    The Czech Junior Deputy Minister of Defence reaffirmed her country’s readiness to broaden defence cooperation with Nigeria, noting that air defence is the backbone of national security and Nigeria is one of the biggest partners to the Czech Republic. 

    Konderlova said, “Nigeria remains a critical partner for the Czech Republic in Africa, particularly in the shared pursuit of peace and stability. 

    “Beyond defence, our partnership also carries immense potential for technology transfer and human capital development.”

    She expressed her country’s commitment to work closely with the Nigerian Air Force to advance aerospace technologies, training cooperation, and promote solutions that empower local industries and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture in a sustainable way. 

    “This approach ensures that our collaboration contributes to both national development and global peace,” Konderlova said. 

  • NAF strikes have degraded terrorists’ capabilities, says CAS

    NAF strikes have degraded terrorists’ capabilities, says CAS

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, stated that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes have significantly degraded the capabilities of violent non-state actors and disrupted their operational networks across the country.

    The Chief said this when he played host to the Junior Deputy Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic, Radka Konderlova, in Abuja, on Tuesday.

    Air Marshal Abubakar highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal contributions to regional stability, emphasising NAF’s frontline role in countering terrorism, insurgency, and violent extremism across the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin.

    He also emphasised NAF’s contributions in the maritime domain, particularly in securing critical national infrastructure and countering piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, stressing that such “engagements reinforce Nigeria’s enduring commitment to collective security across Africa and the international community.”

    The Nation reports that the NAF recorded significant feats recently, eliminating over 800 bandits and terrorists in the Northwest and Northeast regions.

    Also, 62 kidnap victims escaped from a bandit den in Katsina State after the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted airstrikes on the camp of notorious bandit leader Muhammadu Fulani in Danmusa Local Government Area.

    Air Marshal Abubakar reaffirmed NAF’s commitment to strengthening strategic defence cooperation with the Czech Republic as part of ongoing efforts to advance national security and regional stability.

    “This engagement could not have come at a more auspicious time, as the Nigerian Air Force continues its deliberate transformation into an agile and resilient force capable of meeting the airpower demands of national security in all operational environments,” he said.

    The Czech Junior Deputy Minister of Defence reaffirmed her country’s readiness to broaden defence cooperation with Nigeria, noting that air defence is the backbone of national security and Nigeria is one of the biggest partners of the Czech Republic. 

    Read Also: Collateral damage drops in NAF airstrikes, says CAS

    Konderlova said, “Nigeria remains a critical partner for the Czech Republic in Africa, particularly in the shared pursuit of peace and stability.

    “Beyond defence, our partnership also carries immense potential for technology transfer and human capital development.”

    She expressed her country’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Air Force to advance aerospace technologies, training cooperation, and promote solutions that empower local industries and strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture in a sustainable way.

    “This approach ensures that our collaboration contributes to both national development and global peace,” Konderlova said. 

  • Air strike: 62 kidnapped victims escape Katsina bandits’ den – Official

    Air strike: 62 kidnapped victims escape Katsina bandits’ den – Official

    The Katsina government has confirmed that 62 kidnapped victims escaped following an air strike on the camp of a notorious bandits’ kingpin, Muhammadu Fulani in Danmusa Local Government Area of the state.

    Dr Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, confirmed the development in a statement, on Monday in Katsina.

    The Nigeria Air Force (NAF) air strike was targeted at Jigawa-Sawai area on the border with Zamfara.

    Mu’azu said that 12 of the escaped victims were currently receiving medical attention at Matazu General Hospital, while 16 others at the Nigerian Army Forward Operational Base (FOB) in Kaiga Malamai.

    “The Nigerian Air Force operation, conducted on Saturday at 05:10 p.m., forced the bandits to flee their stronghold, creating the opportunity for the mass escape of victims held captive.

    “During interviews with the rescued victims, it was confirmed that the bandits fled as a result of the airstrike.

    “The victims revealed that about 62 people escaped and took off in different directions.

    Read Also: Hundreds of families displaced by wave of Israeli air strikes on Gaza, witnesses say

    “Majority of the victims were abducted from Sayaya village during a night attack on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, by Fulani’s gang, that has been terrorising Matazu, Kankia, Dutsinma, and parts of Kano State,” he said.

    He said the state government has deployed Quick Response Wing of the Nigerian Air Force, to restore peace to the troubled communities in Bakori and Matazu LGAs.

    “Our troops are currently monitoring the situation for further rescue operations,” he said.

    The commissioner assured the affected families that the government would reunite the rescued victims with their loved ones after completing necessary medical examinations.

    (NAN)

  • Collateral damage drops in NAF airstrikes, says CAS

    Collateral damage drops in NAF airstrikes, says CAS

    • Air Force trains personnel on civilian protection

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has said collateral damage from Nigerian Air Force (NAF) operations nationwide has reduced in recent months, despite sustained air strikes against terrorists and other criminals.

    He attributes this development to the Civilian Harm Mitigation (CHM) training provided to NAF personnel who are directly involved in operations.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja by the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS noted that the training, an extension of the NAF’s Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP) launched earlier this year, has equipped the officers with the tools, judgment, and mindset to protect innocent lives in complex operational environments.

    He said: “From the very beginning of my tenure, I made it clear that protecting civilians is not just a moral duty, it is a professional imperative. The CHMR-AP was our blueprint to institutionalise this principle, ensuring that every commander, crew, and analyst is trained to apply the highest standards of humanitarian consideration in mission planning and execution.

    “We have seen the difference that deliberate planning, real-time intelligence, and strict targeting protocols can make. This training takes those lessons further, giving our officers the tools, judgement, and mindset to protect innocent lives even in the most complex operational environments.”

    Read Also: NAF airstrikes eliminate over 100 bandits in Zamfara forests

    Abubakar said the initiative reflected the NAF’s unwavering resolve to ensure that precision, legality, and humanity remained at the heart of every mission.

    The representative of the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said at least 30 NAF officers had completed the inaugural five-day intensive CHM course.

    He said the officers, comprising pilots, UAV operators, armament specialists, legal officers, and public relations experts, were drawn from various NAF departments, reflecting the service’s commitment to a coordinated, multidisciplinary approach to protecting civilians.

    Gabkwet stressed that the approach was beyond mere compliance with international law, framing civilian protection as a strategic advantage.

    He emphasised the significance of trust in operation, adding: “When communities see that we take extraordinary measures to keep them safe, trust is built.

    “That trust is a force multiplier: it strengthens intelligence sharing and isolates hostile actors.

    “Protecting civilians is not only the right thing to do, it is the smart thing to do.”

  • NAF airstrikes eliminate over 100 bandits in Zamfara forests

    NAF airstrikes eliminate over 100 bandits in Zamfara forests

    The Military has neutralised more than 100 terrorists during coordinated airstrikes followed by ground assault and clearances in Makakkari Forest of Bukuyum Local Government Area of Zamfara State.

    This development occurred in the early hours of Sunday when the thunder of military aircraft and the relentless advance of ground troops signalled the beginning of an operation that would leave over 100 bandits dead, their motorcycles smouldering, and their stronghold in ruins.

    A security expert, Zagazola Makama, reported for weeks, intelligence operatives of Operation “FANSAN YAMMA” (OPFY) had tracked unusual movements across the Sunke, Kirsa, and Barukushe axis which are well-known bandits havens. 

    According to him, reports indicated that more than 400 armed fighters, led by some of the region’s most feared kingpins, were massing in Makakkari Forest  targeting Nasarawan Burkullu, a farming community in Bukuyum Local Government Area.

    According to a source, who spoke to Zagazola, the planned raid of the terrorists was intended to avenge a recent defeat suffered by the criminals in a clash with security forces and hybrid units.

    “They thought they could regroup, rearm, and launch another wave of terror,” the sources said.

     “Instead, they walked straight into a well-laid trap.”

    Read Also: Why we raided Kano drug market, by NAFDAC

    The operation began with Air Force platforms swooping low, unleashing precision strikes on bandit clusters identified by reconnaissance drones. 

    Plumes of smoke sighted rose to the sky from the forest as dozens of the terrorists on their motorcycles, the gang’s primary means of mobility, were obliterated.

    “Several notorious kingpins and scores of their foot soldiers met their waterloo before they could even fire a shot,” the sources recounted.

     “Those who tried to scatter were intercepted by our ground assault team in another location.”

    The targeted farming community of Adafka village in Bukkuyum Local Government Area were reportedly seen laying down on the tires of security pickup Hilux vehicle holding green leaves on their hands a sign of protest blocking the security from flee.

    The security pickup Hilux vehicle was  loaded with their belongings ready to flee from the community.