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Tag: Nigerian Air Force

  • NAF plans withdrawal of firearms from retiring officers

    NAF plans withdrawal of firearms from retiring officers

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) said it will soon begin a structured and lawful process of withdrawing service firearms from retiring personnel to strengthen weapons accountability, enhance public safety, and align veteran administration with international best practices.

     The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, revealed this on Saturday during a parley with NAF Veterans, at the NAF Base in Abuja.

     The Air Chief also revealed that the NAF was exploring a regulated armoury arrangement that would allow eligible retirees to lawfully possess approved firearm calibres for personal protection.

    Air Marshal Aneke was represented at the event by the Chief of Administration, Air Vice Marshal Anthony Martins, who conveyed the Air Force leadership’s position on the initiative.

     According to the NAF Chief, efforts are ongoing to retrieve all service-issued weapons from retiring officers and airmen, particularly senior citizens, to prevent risks associated with misuse, diversion, or improper storage.

     “The Nigerian Air Force recognises the distinguished service of its veterans, but service weapons remain government property and must be duly accounted for at retirement, in line with extant laws,” he said.

     The CAS said the exercise was not punitive, rather an administrative necessity aimed at ensuring compliance with the Firearms Act while safeguarding retired personnel and the wider society.

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    He explained that modalities were being developed to ensure transparency, regulation and full compliance with national firearms laws before any such framework is implemented.

     Aneke noted that the firearm withdrawal policy forms part of broader reforms in veteran administration, including plans to establish Veteran Well-Being Centres nationwide.

    He said the centres would serve as one-stop hubs for welfare support, documentation, security-related matters and healthcare coordination for retired personnel.

    The CAS added that the Air Force was leveraging technology through digital platforms and help desks to improve communication and service delivery, especially for elderly veterans.

     He reassured veterans that their safety and dignity remained paramount, stressing that the NAF would balance welfare considerations with national security imperatives.

     The CAS also highlighted the importance of health and wellness in post-service life, describing it as a key pillar of veteran welfare and sustainable reintegration.

     Dr Ugochukwu Nnamdi, a public health practitioner from the 063 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Abuja, noted that health encompasses physical, mental and social well-being.

     He said the transition from military to civilian life often presents emotional and psychological challenges, urging veterans to adopt healthy lifestyles and seek timely medical support.

     The parley provided an interactive platform for veterans to share concerns and offer recommendations on welfare, security and post-service integration.

  • NAF to deploy unmanned air surveillance in Lagos

    NAF to deploy unmanned air surveillance in Lagos

    • Sanwo-Olu backs proposed MMIA airbase

    • CAS commits to personnel welfare, inaugurate projects in Lagos

    To boost security in Lagos, the Nigerian Air Force plans to deploy and maintain advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (AUVs) in the state.

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, announced this yesterday when he visited Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu at State House, Marina.

    According to the CAS, the deployment would enable operatives to view within minutes, what would ordinarily take many days to achieve.

    He said: “What can take days to observe on the ground can be seen within minutes from the air. Our expertise in unmanned aerial systems can greatly benefit Lagos if we continue this partnership,” he said.

    Citing evolving security challenges and the strategic importance of Lagos to national stability, economic growth; Aneke assured the governor of NAF’s readiness to provide technical support, manpower and expertise for effective deployment and utilisation of security equipment.

    The CAS praised Sanwo-Olu for his commitment to security, saying the state has remained ahead in adopting modern and intelligent security solutions.

    Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening long-standing partnership with the NAF particularly in safeguarding strategic installations and enhancing security.

    According to the governor, Lagos was conscious of its strategic importance to Nigeria’s economic progress, stressing that the state would continue to provide necessary support to the Armed Forces to protect critical national assets.

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    The governor also acknowledged the request for the establishment of an Air Force base around the Murtala Muhammed International Airport (MMIA), noting that it would further strengthen the security architecture of the airport.

    “We have taken note of your request for a base around the international airport. It will further enhance capacity and security, considering the strategic nature of the area and its surrounding waterways,” Sanwo-Olu said.

    He pledged continued collaboration with the NAF, as well as other security agencies, to ensure the safety of residents and critical infrastructure in Lagos.

    As part of his working visit, the CAS also inaugurated blocks of accommodation and a multipurpose sports complex for airmen and airwomen at 055 NAFCAMP, Legico Barracks, Victoria Island, pledging to prioritise welfare of personnel.

    Aneke said that providing a conducive environment for the soldiers and their families to reside in will enable them give their best in the discharge of their duties.

    “My command philosophy is to enhance and sustain a highly motivated professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power effects in synergy with surface forces for the realisation of national security objectives.

    “These facilities represent a significant departure from the traditional barrack concept to which we have long been used to and accustomed to.

    “Distinguished by thoughtful architectural design and executed to the highest standards of construction, they stand as a remarkable edifice, both functional in purpose and pleasing in appearance,” he said.

    Aneke insisted that the barrack should be maintained exclusively for airmen and airwomen indicating that the welfare of the personnel. must be given the highest priority.

    “Furthermore, the strategic location of Legico barracks within Lagos State enhances its status as one of the most desirable and dignified residential environments for service personnel anywhere in the country,” the CAS said.

    Aneke complimented the immediate CAS, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar (rtd) for initiating the project which he had come to complete and bring into reality.

    “These set of buildings did not appear from nowhere. It took the mind, brain and time of Abubakar who is strategic and forward-thinking to bring a new concept that we all must continue to build upon.

    “I’m only coming in to take the glory, but he has done all the sweats. He has done everything possible therefore I give honour to whom honour is due,” he said.

    The CAS added that the timely completion was deliberately prioritised under his administration in line with his unwavering commitment to improving the living and working condition of NAF personnel.

    “Adequate housing significantly reduces welfare related pressure, promotes stability on the home front and enables our personnel to devote their full attention to assigned operational duties.

    “You cannot function properly if you don’t have the right housing and I know how it feels when you are posted and your family is not comfortable.

    “So, we will do everything possible to ensure that your families are comfortable enough for you to give us your best,” he said.

    Aneke urged all personnel who occupy and utilise the facility to uphold the highest standards of discipline and responsibility.

    “Let these facilities remain a source of comfort, dignity, and motivation for both present and future occupants,” the CAS said.

    Aneke said that the commissioning would not have been possible without the steadfast support of the federal government and the leadership of the National Assembly, whose fiscal interventions made these projects achievable.

  • FG fast-tracks acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters

    FG fast-tracks acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters

    …as Air Chief leads team to United States

    The federal government is strengthening the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) operational capabilities in ongoing counterterrorism and counterinsurgency operations through the acquisition of new air platforms to address evolving security threats.

    The latest effort is the move to procure 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters from the United States (U.S).

    The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior U.S government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron, an American aerospace manufacturer, in San Diego, California.

    The AH-1Z is a modern attack helicopter operated by the U.S. military and equipped with advanced sensors, precision-guided weapons, and night-fighting capabilities.

    The acquisition of the AH-1Z is expected to significantly enhance the NAF’s ability to provide close air support, conduct armed reconnaissance, and sustain air operations in challenging environments.

    According to a statement by NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Thursday, Air Marshal Aneke, during the engagement, thanked the U.S Government and Messrs Bell Textron for their continued cooperation, professionalism, and transparency in the execution of the helicopter acquisition programme.

    The Air Chief noted that the structured review reflects the NAF’s deliberate emphasis on programme discipline, accountability, and results.

    He acknowledged the professionalism and openness that were started by both teams during the process.

    “We deeply value the professionalism and openness demonstrated throughout this process, and we remain fully committed to working closely with our partners to ensure the timely and successful delivery of these platforms,” the CAS stated.

    The Air Chief emphasised that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters represents more than a platform upgrade, describing it as “a reflection of the enduring defence cooperation” between Nigeria and the United States.

    According to him, the programme underscores a shared responsibility for regional and global security, built on mutual trust, shared values, and a common vision for peace and stability.

    He said, “This partnership speaks to our collective resolve to confront evolving security challenges through collaboration and sustained capability development.”

    The CAS reaffirmed the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment in the acquisition of the platform, assuring the U.S. team that all necessary measures would be taken to ensure the helicopters are delivered as quickly as possible.

    Read Also: FG confirms release of Super Eagles’ bonuses

    The Air Chief charged the programme management team to work smartly and proactively to complete production on schedule and within budget.

    “Timelines and standards must be met concurrently. We must remain focused, innovative, and solutions-driven,” he stressed.

    The CAS thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Air Force, noting that the acquisition of the AH-1Z helicopters would significantly enhance the NAF’s combat capability, operational efficiency, and mission readiness, thereby strengthening the NAF’s ability to deliver decisive airpower in support of national security and stability.

    The Air Chief added that the advanced capabilities of the helicopters would enable the NAF to conduct highly precise operations, minimise collateral damage, and provide timely and effective support to ground forces, ultimately saving lives and protecting property across affected communities.

    He reassured Nigerians of the NAF’s unwavering commitment to eliminating terrorist and criminal threats with professionalism, restraint, and accountability, while sustaining public trust and confidence in its operations.

  • NAF invites shortlisted candidates for DSSC 34 enlistment interview

    NAF invites shortlisted candidates for DSSC 34 enlistment interview

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has invited shortlisted candidates for the Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC) 34/2025 to attend the enlistment interview scheduled to hold in Kaduna.

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by its Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the list of successful candidates had been uploaded on the NAF recruitment portal.

    Ejodame said the interview would take place at the Nigerian Air Force Base, Kaduna, from January 12 to February 8.

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    According to him, candidates will be interviewed in batches, strictly in line with the schedule published on the recruitment portal.

    Ejodame advised invited candidates to carefully read and comply with all instructions provided on the portal, warning that failure to adhere to the guidelines could lead to disqualification.

    The NAF spokesperson also urged applicants to familiarise themselves with other relevant information on the portal, including guidance for prospective officers and airmen, as well as the Armed Forces of Nigeria Harmonised Terms and Conditions of Service.

    “The Nigerian Air Force encourages all shortlisted candidates to report as scheduled for their respective batches,” he said.

  • NAF compensates victims of Sokoto airstrike

    NAF compensates victims of Sokoto airstrike

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has paid compensation to victims and families affected by the accidental airstrike of December 25, 2024, in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages, Silame Local Government Area of Sokoto State.

    Speaking on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, said the exercise followed a fact-finding investigation into the incident carried out under Operation Fasan Yamma.

    He said intelligence at the time indicated the movement of suspected terrorists through the area, but a petition received in April 2025 led to further review. The investigation confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed, while eight others were injured.

    Gabkwet said the compensation was meant to acknowledge the harm caused, promote accountability and help bring closure to the affected communities. He added that civilian harm mitigation remains a priority under the current NAF leadership.

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    The CAS also disclosed that the Air Force has developed a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan to strengthen operational planning, investigations and response when civilian harm occurs.

    The NAF urged residents to avoid associating with terrorists and bandits, warning that such proximity increases the risk of harm during military operations. 

    It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting civilians while continuing operations against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

    Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliyu, thanked the NAF for the compensation and its role in supporting security efforts in the state.

  • Over 20,000 apply to join Air Force

    Over 20,000 apply to join Air Force

    Over 20,000 applicants are participating in the ongoing zonal general aptitude test for the Nigerian Air Force’s 2025 Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) 46 recruitment.

    The exercise is being conducted at 15 designated zonal centres in Sokoto, Minna, Kaduna, Kano, Bauchi, Maiduguri, Yola, Makurdi, Jos, Ilorin, Ipetu-Ijesa, Enugu, Benin, Port Harcourt, and Ikeja.

    In a statement yesterday in Abuja, NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the extensive national spread reflected the commitment of the service to inclusiveness, equal opportunity, and a transparent, merit-driven recruitment process that enables qualified Nigerians from all parts of the country to compete fairly.

    He said: “The impressive turnout further underscores the sustained confidence of Nigerian youths in the Nigerian Air Force as a disciplined, professional, and patriotic institution.

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    “It also highlights the NAF’s resolve to attract capable, motivated, and resilient young Nigerians at a time when the nation’s security environment demands enhanced manpower strength to effectively support ongoing internal security operations and national defence efforts.”

    The statement said the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, had reaffirmed that the recruitment process be guided by fairness, integrity, and strict adherence to established standards.

    It said the CAS stressed that the aptitude test was a critical step in building a motivated and mission-ready force, assuring Nigerians of the NAF’s continued dedication to supporting internal security operations and protecting the lives and property of citizens, in line with its constitutional responsibilities.

    “The Nigerian Air Force remains firmly committed to recruiting the best candidates by merit, as the quality of our personnel is fundamental to operational effectiveness and the successful execution of our constitutional mandate,” the statement added.

  • 11 officers onboard Nigerian Air Force jet freed in B’Faso

    11 officers onboard Nigerian Air Force jet freed in B’Faso

    • ECOWAS ministers: no room for coup

    Authorities  in Burkina Faso have released 11 Nigerian military personnel held after a cargo plane from Lagos made an “unauthorised” emergency landing in its second largest city, Bobo-Dioulasso.

    The breakaway regional Association of Sahel States (AES) said on Monday that the C-130 aircraft had entered Burkina Faso’s airspace without clearance, calling it an “unfriendly act”.

    Burkina Faso authorities said the two crew members and nine passengers were given permission to return to Nigeria, but the status of the seized plane remain unclear.

    Authorities in Nigeria said on Tuesday that the plane had made an unplanned stop at the Bobo-Dioulasso airport “in accordance with standard safety procedures and international aviation protocols” owing to a technical concern on its way to Portugal for a ferry mission.

    Ehimen Ejodame, a spokesperson for the Nigerian air force, neither confirmed nor denied comments about authorisation, or the lack of it, to make the landing but said an investigation into the incident was continuing.

    He said the military personnel had been treated well by their hosts and that plans were under way to continue the mission. On Sunday, a domestic test flight in Niger state had also crashed, with both pilots surviving.

    The timing of the emergency landing on Monday intensified regional scrutiny, coming a day after Nigerian airstrikes at a military camp in neighbouring Benin, where some military personnel linked to a foiled coup were reportedly in hiding.

    A spokesperson for the government in Abuja said Nigeria acted in line with protocols of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), following a request from Beninese authorities after soldiers briefly seized the national broadcaster and announced the removal of the president, Patrice Talon.

    Omar Touray, president of the ECOWAS Commission has said the region is in a state of emergency, referencing the fragility of democratic institutions and security challenges facing member states.

    “Events of the last few weeks have shown the imperative of serious introspection on the future of our democracy and the urgent need to invest in the security of our community,” he told the bloc’s mediation and security council during a meeting in Abuja on Tuesday.

    ECOWAS ministers pledge zero-tolerance for coup

    THE ministers of Economic Community of West African States have renewed their stance on zero-tolerance for military takeover in the sub-region.

    Chairman of the ECOWAS Council of Ministers and Sierra Leone’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Timothy Kabba, stated this yesterday at the close of the 55th Ordinary Session of the Mediation and Security Council at ministerial level in Abuja.

    Kabba pointed out the need for ECOWAS to sustain its shared identity and common history.

    The Sierra Leonean minister, who was speaking on the heels of the December 7 attempted coup in Benin, said that the incident “renewed ECOWAS’s commitment to zero-tolerance for unconstitutional takeover of our territory.”

    He noted that ECOWAS  leaders remain united in restoring political order and preventing further destabilisation.

    “ECOWAS is a community that represents our collective culture, our collective identity and our common history. This is the reason why ECOWAS must triumph,” he added.

    He also noted that the surge in military take-overs calls for a retrospect from the leaders.

    Kabba said: “We have seen an uptick in unconstitutional takeover of government. Sometimes it almost feels like there’s legitimacy in the challenges opposed to democracy.

    “This calls for all of us to look back into our governance system to ensure that we uphold the requirements of our constitution and respect the rule of law.”

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    He dismissed claims that the bloc focuses excessively on political and security crises at the expense of development.

    “Without peace, security and stability there will be no development. This is the reason why ECOWAS places a premium on community peace, security and stability.”

    Kabba praised the ministers for demonstrating unity of purpose during the Abuja session. “Let’s continue to work together, let’s build trust which is the bedrock of our partnership. Without trust, every effort, every resource we put into the workings of ECOWAS will not bear desirable fruit.”

    He said the two-day meeting underscored the gravity of the political and security crises confronting the region, warning that West Africa “is not an exclusion from the vibrations that emanate from the contestation of the powers of the world in a rather multipolar world.”

    He added that Africa once again finds itself carrying the burden of global disruption, despite its vast natural resources.

    Nigeria urges sub-region to remain steadfast

    Nigeria’s Minister of State Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu yesterday urged ECOWAS members to remain steadfast in defending constitutional order, promoting inclusive political dialogue, and supporting credible transitions that reinforce stability.

    This is as she called for the acceleration of economic integration in the sub-region.

    Amb. Odumegwu-Ojukwu spoke at the opening of the 95th Ordinary Session of the ECOWAS Council of Minister in Abuja.

    She challenged ECOWAS to meet the yearning cry of the regional youth who are looking up to the regional body to create opportunities for them.

    She stressed that they are relying on ECOWAS to chart a path toward progress.

    Noting that as ECOWAS is still basking in the euphoria of the golden jubilee celebration, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the regional body must confront its challenges.

    She identified the recent surge in military takeover, banditry and kidnappings as some of the challenges.

    According to her: “Recent years have witnessed political instability and lack of inclusivity, including forceful unconstitutional changes of government, deliberate prolonged transitions, and governance uncertainties and deficits in a number of member states.”

    “These situations challenge not only the democratic values to which we have all subscribed, but also threaten hard-won development gains. They undermine citizen confidence and weaken the regional cohesion that has defined ECOWAS for half a century.”

    Army chief hails troop for quelling Benin Republic coup

    The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt. -Gen. Shaibu Waidi yesterday commended troops of 81 Division, Lagos for their swift intervention in Benin Republic that helped foil an attempted coup in the neighbouring country on Sunday.

    Waidi praised the troop while addressing them during his maiden visit to the division’s headquarters in Victoria Island, noting that they protected democracy in Benin Republic by their action.

    He said: “Particularly, I want to commend all the officers and men of this division for the rapid response to restore democracy in the Republic of Benin. That is the hallmark of soldiering. Immediately the instruction was given, the officers mobilised and ensured that task was carried out effectively. So, I say congratulations to all of you. That is the spirit.”

    The COAS also urged the troops to remain discipline and focused, assuring them that their welfare was priority.

    “I am here with all my staff and we are putting you first. Everything that concerns your well-being, welfare in terms of accommodation, allowances, the education of your children, healthcare…we will ensure we give that top priority and ensure you have a top-notch education for your children.” 

  • NAF promotes 57 officers to new ranks

    NAF promotes 57 officers to new ranks

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced the promotion of 57 senior officers to the ranks of Air Vice Marshal and Air Commodore.

    A statement yesterday in Abuja by the NAF’s spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said 27 officers were promoted to the rank of Air Vice Marshal, while 30 were promoted to the rank of Air Commodore.

    Those promoted to Air Vice Marshal are: Air Commodores S. A. Eyoma, G.I. Jibia, A.A. Adebomehin, E.S. Odekina, C.E. Akubue, S.O. Eyekosi, A.O. Akinbuwa, L.I. Kamat, A.G. Akinyimika, A.O. Bamidele, A.K. Famuyiwa, P.J. Edem, S.A. Madaki, O.T. Salami, F.O. Ankeli, M.J. Chidama, J.J. Ijudigal, M. Umar, I.J. Ogbodo, U. Ariahu, A.L. Dakwat, C.E. Akpa, E.C. Ukpong, I.S. Subi, I.M. Yusha’u, S.S. Lazarus and F. Ekpah.

    According to the statement, those promoted to Air Commodore are: Group Captains M.A. Imam, A.A. Komolafe, H.I. Eze, D.U. Edet, M.B. Umar, G.H. Okoh, S.P. Sekegor, P.P. Okonkwo, P.U. Okweugo, A.U. Yahaya, M. Yahaya, I.R. Ubeh, O.K. Cole, E.A. Ifebi, R.K. Olundu, I.O. Akpasa, A.K. Mohammed, H.A. Meshack, S.N. Nwachi, Z.B. Shuwa, E.J. Alabila, S.A. Osoniyi, A.O. Ogunmola, A.J. Arumona, B.I. Jayeoba, C.E. Akuh, N.N. Onuoha-Mba, P.A. Garba, Y.M. Abdullahi, and M. Suleiman.

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    The statement explained that the promotion cycle reflected a deliberate effort to reinforce high-command leadership, enhance operational expertise, and strengthen the intellectual and strategic backbone of the Service.

    “Each officer was selected following a rigorous evaluation of merit, professional competence, operational experience, loyalty to the Service, and alignment with the strategic objectives of the Nigerian Air Force,” it said.

    According to the statement, the elevation was guided by the need to deepen command responsibility, sharpen operational decision-making, and enhance the NAF’s readiness posture across multiple theatres of operation.

    It said the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, urged the officers to serve with integrity, humility, and operational sharpness “while strengthening synergy with sister services, enhancing intelligence exploitation, mentoring junior personnel, and upholding the highest standards of discipline in all air operations”.  

  • NAF probes alleges destruction of distillery during strikes in Rivers

    NAF probes alleges destruction of distillery during strikes in Rivers

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has initiated a probe into the alleged destruction of a local gin distillery during strikes targeting clusters of illegal crude oil refining sites in the creeks of Etche Local Government Area, Rivers State.

    NAF’s spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said in a statement on Friday that the NAF has initiated necessary steps to verify the situation in line with its Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMR-AP).

    Ejodame reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to international best practices, safeguarding lives and property, and ensuring transparency and accountability in its operations.

    He maintained the NAF strikes in Rivers State successfully disrupted clusters of illegal crude oil refining sites deep in the creeks of Etche Local Government Area.

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    The NAF’s spokesman noted that the operation, conducted under ongoing counter-oil theft missions, forms part of sustained efforts to curb economic sabotage and environmental degradation in the Niger Delta region.

    According to him, during the mission, NAF aircraft identified active illegal refining sites concealed within a densely forested area near Owaza. 

    “The location, completely isolated and without visible human activity, was confirmed through credible intelligence and aerial surveillance. 

    “The aircrew engaged the targets with precision, neutralising the sites and halting ongoing illegal operations,” he said. 

  • NAF Air strike, the accompanying photo and one other thing

    NAF Air strike, the accompanying photo and one other thing

    • By RAFIU AJAKAYE

    This is an unusual time — a dreadful one. We are not used to it. Lives are at stake. The anxiety is justified, and there is no dismissing people’s experiences and feelings — not by any inch. 

    Some have said we are in a state of war. It is their own way of saying it. However, in honor of the dead and to save everyone, this is a time to major only in the major. 

    So much has been said about the statement of the Nigerian Air Force which was issued yesterday. It has degenerated into arguments. Two things are at issue here: was there a statement on Monday September 29 by the NAF announcing an air strike on enemy position? Yes. The Air Force shared the statement on its official WhatsApp platform at 1:54pm yesterday. Some people claim the statement was not posted on their Facebook or other social handles. Does that invalidate its authenticity? No. Has the NAF disputed it issued the statement since it went viral yesterday? No. There is absolutely no basis for the disputations. Was there a security operation last night in the area of interest? Yes. There are pictures from the secret police, which was heavily involved in the operation last night. 

    Attached herewith are pictures from the DSS on the operation between Kogi and Kwara, in which several criminals were eliminated, and a screenshot from the NAF WhatsApp platform with editors. 

    What does the government gain in saying there was an operation if there was none? Many operations happen without getting to the media, legacy or new. When things are shared with the public, it is sometimes to keep our people at ease in times of tension. Nothing more. It serves no general good if we do not operate with minimal trust in times of crisis. 

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    We should focus on the real issue, unite in the outrage against the enemies, and leave ‘fine, fine details’ for the good days. No one should have time for petty partisan bickering and twaddle now. 

    The other issue is the picture, which accompanied the NAF statement on different platforms. Yes, the NAF didn’t share its statement with the picture. But hey, what does that matter in the context of whether the operation happened? The problem would be if there was no engagement or airstrike at all, and someone just wrote a fiction and attached the picture. The strike happened. It did. 

    The news reporter in me took it further. At 3:11p.m. this afternoon, September 30, I spoke with the NAF spokesman Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame to confirm to me if he issued the statement. He confirmed he issued it! My call was to satisfy “all righteousness”. Multiple authoritative sources had earlier told me the airstrike took place. 

    News media (including Sahara Reporters) have used pictures from thousands of kilometers away to illustrate their stories — attached herewith are screenshots of news media using old pictures to illustrate new stories. What is the fuss about a picture of a previous air strike in Borno or Alabama accompanying the statement? 

    Politicians do not miss opportunities to wrong-foot their opponents. Average citizens who are concerned about all of us getting out of this crisis stronger and better as a community should not join such chitchat. It is not worth it.

    Finally, and this is in good faith, there is no truth to the claim that DSS withdrew weapons from the forest guards at any time. The leadership of the forest guards has disputed this claim. The DSS, for its part, has expressed strong reservations about the demoralising, albeit false, claim which was made in a viral video. We pray to God to console the bereaved woman— and every other ones — but her claim is not true. This clarification does not in any way delegitimise her grief. Not at all.  May God uphold her and others in her position. 

    We will get out of this stronger and safer. Let us remain United and calm, and refuse to be at daggers-drawn with ourselves. That will be a road to the Golgotha.

    ▪︎ Rafiu Ajakaye is the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor