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  • NAF destroys bandit’s enclave, rescues 76 victims in Katsina

    NAF destroys bandit’s enclave, rescues 76 victims in Katsina

    The Katsina State Government has disclosed that air strike by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has destroyed the enclave of a bandits’ kingpin, Babaro, at Pauwa Hill in Kankara Local Government Area of the state.

    Babaro was believed to be the mastermind behind the recent deadly attack on Unguwan Mantau in Malumfashi LGA, where many killed and several others abducted.

    Dr Nasir Mu’azu, Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, said this in a statement on Saturday in Katsina.

    He said the NAF air interdiction was conducted on Saturday morning at Pauwa Hill in Kankara LGA, and successfully rescued 76 kidnapped victims, including women and children.

    “Specifically, the operation targeted Babaro’s stronghold at Pauwa Hill – one of his most notorious bases that has long been a source of terror to surrounding communities,” he said.

    Mu’azu said that all those abducted during the attack on Unguwan Mantau has since been rescued.

    “It was regrettably noted that one child tragically lost his life during the ordeal.

    “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,” Mu’azu said.

    He commended the NAF, Nigerian Army, and all security agencies for their courage and professionalism in the fight.

    “Their sacrifices are steadily reclaiming Katsina’s towns and villages from the grip of criminals.

    “We reaffirm our continued support through logistics, intelligence sharing, and community engagement, ensuring these efforts are sustained until banditry is completely eradicated.”

    Mu’azu also urged residents of the state to be vigilant and provide timely information that could assist ongoing security operations.

  • FG denies selling Bauchi housing units to NAF

    FG denies selling Bauchi housing units to NAF

    The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has dismissed allegations that it sold 270 newly constructed housing units along the Ningi-Kano Road to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF).

    Mr Nwamadu Herbert, the State Controller of the Ministry, refuted the claims while addressing newsmen on Friday in Bauchi.

    The Bauchi State Concerned Citizens Group had staged a protest against the alleged sale of the houses to the NAF, demanding justice.

    Nwamadu explained that although discussions with the NAF were still ongoing, no transfer of ownership had been finalised, as the ministry was still awaiting directives from its headquarters.

    “The houses remain under the custody of the ministry,” he said.

    He called the protesters ‘illegal occupants’ and explained that provisional allocations were granted only to genuine allottees who fulfilled the stipulated requirements within 90 days.

    He said the decision to revoke offers to defaulters on April 1 was widely publicised and challenged any protester to produce valid allocation documents.

    Meanwhile, the Concerned Citizens group, led by Mr Aliyu Ladan, has insisted that the alleged sale undermined the welfare of Bauchi workers.

    Ladan described the move as “unfortunate and illegitimate,” claiming the houses were part of a 1,000-unit project initiated by former President Muhammadu Buhari to tackle workers’ accommodation challenges.

    He appealed to President Bola Tinubu to intervene and cancel the purported deal, warning that the development could trigger unrest.

    He urged the government to prioritise the rights and welfare of residents over institutional negotiations.

  • NAF graduates 30 helicopter pilots

    NAF graduates 30 helicopter pilots

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has charged 30 newly graduated helicopter pilots to rise to the demands of modern warfare by embracing continuous learning, teamwork, and professionalism.

    Abubakar gave the charge on Wednesday, during the Combined Graduation Ceremony of the Integrated Helicopter Pilot Course 9/2024 and Airline Transport Pilot Licence Course 2/2025, at the International Helicopter Flying School (IHFS), Enugu.

    This is contained in a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigeria Air Force (NAF), on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Abubakar congratulated the pilots for their achievement, reminding them that they have commenced a special journey.

    “You are stepping into a dynamic and complex operational environment.

    “The threats to our national security are multifaceted and constantly evolving.

    “Your success will depend not only on the flying skills you have acquired but, on your ability, to adapt, collaborate, and operate as part of a coordinated joint force,” he said.

    The CAS called on the new pilots to wear their wings with humility and a deep sense of responsibility, stressing that they carry the hopes of a nation and the trust of a service that remains a pillar of peace and stability.

    He emphasised that the hangar was one of several ongoing projects, including a new school headquarters and 36 units of student accommodation, which demonstrate the NAF’s commitment to transforming IHFS into a global standard for helicopter training.

    “NAF is not only training pilots, we are building a self-reliant, mission-oriented, and resilient force capable of meeting the airpower demands of today’s battle space,” he added.

    Abubakar reaffirmed that IHFS remains a cornerstone of his command philosophy, which prioritises deliberate training, human capacity development, and infrastructure-driven operational excellence.

    He further acknowledged the efforts of the Rector and instructional team at IHFS, applauding their professionalism and dedication to producing world-class pilots.

    The ceremony also featured the graduation of IHFS flight instructors who completed their Airline Transport Pilot Licence (ATPL) training, along with promotions for several instructors, reflecting the school’s growing instructional capacity and adherence to global best practices.

    The Aeronautical Engineering and Technical Services Limited, along with the School’s Board of Directors, also received praise for their oversight and strategic support.

    The combined ceremony marked not just the celebration of pilot proficiency but the unveiling of a broader strategic vision for rotary-wing aviation in Nigeria’s evolving security architecture.

  • NAF graduates 8 UAV pilots

    NAF graduates 8 UAV pilots

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Thursday graduated eight Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) pilots in Kaduna State. They graduated from the 109 Combat Reconnaissance Group, NAF Kaduna.

    The Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, AVM Patrick Obeya was the Special Guest of Honour at the Operational Conversion Training Course 3/2024.

    Obeya said the graduation marked  a significant milestone for the dedicated professionals who successfully completed the rigorous training programme for ‘Remotely Piloted Aircraft Operations’.

    He congratulated  the graduands on their achievement, emphasising the importance of their role in air operations, national security, and the NAF’s objectives.

    Obeya applauded the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for his commitment to training and human capacity development.

    According to him, the training programme was facilitated by experienced instructors, equipping the graduates with essential skills and knowledge to carry out their vital tasks with diligence, accuracy, and integrity.

    He said some of the graduands would be deployed to Maiduguri, Borno, to contribute to the air efforts in Operation HADIN KAI.

    Obeya advised the graduates to stay updated with technological advancements and work collaboratively with other aviation personnel. He commended the training unit and award winners, encouraging them to excel further.

    Obeya said, “NAF’s commitment to capacity building and its efforts to enhance air operations. The graduates are now fully equipped to seamlessly fit into NAF air operations across various theatres.

    “The graduates are now equipped to play a vital role in national security and the NAF’s objectives.”

    Earlier, the Commander, 109 Combat Reconnaissance Group , Group Capt. Augustine Idoko, underscored the significance of the training programme in developing agile and resilient Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) operators.

    The commander expressed gratitude to the Chief of the Air Staff for his visionary leadership and commitment to training and force development.

    Idoko said the group had made significant contributions to NAF’s mandate, conducting precision air strikes, ‘Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR)’missions, and ‘Battle Damage Assessment (BDA)’.

    He said the unit had conducted over 130 missions and accumulated more than 950 hours in the first half of 2025.

    Idoko said, “The unit has maintained an aircraft serviceability rate of over 80 per cent across its fleet.

    “The unit has achieved several milestones, including conducting the first-ever NAF Type-Rating Course (NAFTRAC) for RPA operators in NAF.

    He said the unit plans to inaugurate the next Operational Conversion Training Course early next month, which would add more operators to the operational manpower pool and enhance operational effectiveness.

    He said the unit remained committed to sustaining its effort in training and human capacity development, aligning with the policy thrust of the current NAF administration.

  • NAF air strike eliminates 95 terrorists in Niger

    NAF air strike eliminates 95 terrorists in Niger

    The Air Component of Operation Fasan Yamma, has successfully eliminated no fewer than 95 terrorists in major airstrikes around Ragada and Warari villages in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger.

    A credible intelligence source revealed to NAN that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets intercepted the terrorists on their way from Zamfara in Tuesday at about 1500 hours.

    The sources said the bandits were moving from Zamfara axis through Kebbi state down to Niger.

    According to him, enquiry conducted revealed the bandits are moving with one hundred and eight (108) mortcycycles armed with sophisticated weapons are on their way to Warari and Rijau Local Government Areas of Niger.

    “NAF fighter jets intercepted them between Ragada and Warari villages at location general area coordinate 10° 54′ 1.51” N | 5° 25′ 4.96” E in Rijau Local Government Area.

    “It has been confirmed that out of the 108 bandits, mortcycycles only thirteen (13) mortcycycles of the bandits escaped, but the remaining were neutralised.

    “Residence of the villages of Makuku, Warari, and Ragada in Rijau Local Government Area have expressed their happiness and appreciation to the federal government commitment in the ongoing fight against banditry and other criminal elements in the northwest generally,” he said.

    The source revealed that intelligence source in the area had confirmed the information.

  • NAF disowns recruitment adverts as fake

    NAF disowns recruitment adverts as fake

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has not commenced recruitment for the 2025/2026 Basic Military Training Course (BMTC) and Direct Short Service Commission (DSSC).

    The Director, Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Thursday, described the advertisement as fraudulent.

    Ejodame said that no such recruitment exercise is currently ongoing, urging the public to disregard those messages in their entirety.

    “We wish to remind the general public that the Nigerian Air Force recruitment and enlistment processes are free, transparent, and merit-based.

    “The NAF does not charge any fee at any stage of its recruitment exercise, and does not engage third parties or agents for enlistment.

    “Whenever a recruitment exercise is to be conducted, it will be officially announced and widely publicised through credible national dailies, the NAF official website, and its verified social media platforms.

    “We therefore urge members of the public to be wary of online scams and exercise extreme caution when coming across unofficial recruitment advertisements,” he said.

    Ejodame also advised the public to always rely on NAF’s official social media handles for accurate and up-to-date information regarding its activities.

    According to him, official NAF communication channels are: https://web.facebook.com/hqnigerianairforce, https://x.com/NigAirForce, https://www.instagram.com/NigerianAirForce, https://youtube.com/@nigerianairforcehq, and https://www.airforce.mil.ng/.

    “The Nigerian Air Force is committed to integrity, transparency, and efficient service delivery to the nation while projecting air power to save lives and properties of all Nigerians,” he added.

  • NAF deploys more air assets over Benue killings

    NAF deploys more air assets over Benue killings

    As part of sustained efforts to restore peace and stability across the North Central region, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed additional air assets under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS).

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Tuesday in Abuja.

    Ejodame said the strategic move had reinforced the NAF’s commitment to enhancing security, supporting ground operations, and reassuring communities affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal unrest.

    He said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, conducted a firsthand evaluation of air operations under OPWS, to assess the effectiveness of these expanded efforts.

    According to him, the visit included a high-level strategic engagement held on Tuesday, at the Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Makurdi.

    Ejodame said the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede; a representative of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Adm. Olusegun Ferreira; the Commander of OPWS; and the Maritime and Air Component Commanders, alongside other key stakeholders, were part of the meeting.

    According to Ejodame, critical updates were provided on the current tempo of joint operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across the region.

    In his remarks, the CAS revealed that the newly deployed air assets had been successfully integrated into ongoing operations, delivering real-time intelligence and precision targeting support.

    He stated NAF aircraft had continued to conduct surveillance, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and precision strike missions with remarkable success.

    Abubakar noted that the current deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s overarching mission to stabilise the Middle Belt region.

    He highlighted the impact of recent coordinated air and ground operations across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, which have led to the dismantling of several militia camps, bandit enclaves, and criminal hideouts.

    “These outcomes reinforce our unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and supporting national peace-building initiatives.

    “As long as peace is threatened, our resolve remains unshaken.

    “The NAF will continue to deliver timely, decisive air support in synergy with sister services, ensuring the protection of lives and properties while advancing our mission of restoring peace to the Middle Belt and beyond,” he said.

    The Service Chiefs jointly emphasised the importance of synergy among the armed forces and other security agencies, noting that jointness remains a cornerstone for operational success under Operation Whirl Stroke.

    They reiterated that the ongoing operations are part of a broader goal to create a secure environment where residents can live and conduct their legitimate activities without fear.

  • BREAKING: NAF foils planned Eid-el-Kabir terror attacks in Borno

    BREAKING: NAF foils planned Eid-el-Kabir terror attacks in Borno

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has foiled plans by Boko Haram terrorists to carry out terror attacks aimed at disrupting Eid-el-Kabir celebrations in Borno State.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters of NAF made this known in a statement on Saturday.

    Recall that Vice President Kashim Shettima had on Friday arrived Maiduguri, the Borno state capital to celebrate the Eid-el-Kabir with his immediate family and people of the State.

    According to Air Commodore Ejodame, NAF, under Operation HADIN KAI, foiled the planned terror attacks in a series of precision airstrikes conducted on the 5th and 6th of June 2025.

    The statement reads: In a series of precision airstrikes conducted on 5 and 6 June 2025, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation HADIN KAI, decimated key Boko Haram hideouts at Tumbumma Baba and Chiralia in the Southern Tumbuns, Borno State.

    “Acting on credible intelligence, NAF aircraft targeted terrorist structures reportedly used for storage and coordination, delivering direct hits and crippling planned attacks aimed at disrupting Eid celebrations.

    “Battle Damage Assessments confirmed the neutralisation of several terrorists and the destruction of key logistics structures. This pre-emotive action underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to safeguarding civilian lives and supporting national security objectives”.

    TNG reports before departing Abuja for Borno, Shettima joined other Muslim faithful to observe Eid-Kabir prayers at the National Eid ground along Airport Road, Abuja.

    On arrival at the Muhammadu Buhari International Airport in Maiduguri, Shettima was received by Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno, Speaker of Borno State House of Assembly, Abdulkarim Lawan and other top government officials in the state.

    The festival, also known as the Feast of the Sacrifice, commemorates the unwavering faith of Prophet Ibrahim, who was prepared to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command before being divinely granted a ram to sacrifice instead.

  • Local vigilantes die as NAF bombards terrorists in Zamfara

    Local vigilantes die as NAF bombards terrorists in Zamfara

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has eliminated no fewer than 20 armed terrorists and destroyed over 21 motorcycles during an air interdiction operation on May 31 in Zamfara State.

    The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, in a statement on Monday, said the operation was carried out in the general area south of Mai-Galma in Maru Local Government Area,

    Ejodame said the operation was aimed at halting a planned large-scale attack on vulnerable communities by armed bandits.

    He said that intelligence received indicated that a significant number of terrorists were massing and preparing to strike unsuspecting settlements.

    According to him, further intelligence confirmed that the bandits had killed some farmers and abducted a number of civilians, including women and children.

    “Consequently, NAF aircraft under Operation FANSAN YAMMA was immediately dispatched on armed reconnaissance and possible rescue mission.

    “On arrival at the area, over 30 motorcycles carrying armed terrorists heading into the nearby forest were positively identified.

    “On sighting the aircraft, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a precision engagement that led to the destruction of several motorcycles and the neutralisation of dozens of terrorists.

    “Ground forces were immediately mobilised to exploit the situation. They confirmed the destruction of enemy assets and the neutralisation of over 20 terrorists,” he said.

    Ejodame said that two local vigilantes lost their lives and two others sustained injuries in the course of the operation.

    He said the NAF deeply regrets the loss of those brave vigilantes, adding that it remains committed to working with local communities to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

    According to him, efforts are ongoing to track and rescue the kidnapped villagers who were taken into the adjoining forest.

    “The NAF reiterates that all it’s operations are guided by strict rules of engagement, adherence to humanitarian law as well as the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP), which emphasises the protection of innocent lives even in the face of hostile engagements.

    “As investigations continue, the NAF assures the public that all necessary measures are taken to protect civilians while intensifying pressure on criminal elements threatening peace in the region,” he added.

  • Tragedy averted as gas explosion rocks Port Harcourt

    Tragedy averted as gas explosion rocks Port Harcourt

    Tragedy was averted on Friday, 16 May 2025, when a gas explosion erupted at the Nobpet Filling Station, directly opposite the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) base in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

    The incident, which occurred around 4:11 pm, sent shockwaves through the area, triggering panic among residents and commuters.

    However, a swift response by the NAF fire unit brought the situation under control before it could escalate.

    “Upon hearing the explosion, the NAF fire team, located nearby at the Base, sprang into action, arriving at the scene within minutes.

    “Working under intense heat and thick smoke, the firefighters battled the flames with remarkable professionalism and bravery, successfully extinguishing the fire and preventing it from spreading to adjoining buildings, vehicles, and homes.

    “Beyond firefighting, the NAF once again demonstrated its deep commitment to public service,” a statement by NAF reads.

    It was gathered that the base ambulance of NAF was immediately deployed, providing first aid and evacuating three injured civilians to the NAF Hospital (NAFRH) for urgent medical care.

    The quick medical intervention helped stabilise the victims, further underscoring the NAF’s readiness to assist in emergencies, whether on the battlefield or within the community.

    “This timely intervention reflects the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to its corporate social responsibility and its support to civil authorities, especially in times of crisis.

    “It also highlights the benefits of recent upgrades to the NAF’s fire-fighting assets, initiated by the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.

    “These upgrades have significantly enhanced the Service’s emergency response capacity, ensuring that NAF fire units remain agile, efficient, and reliable,” NAF stated.

    It added: “As calm returns to the affected area, the NAF remains on standby, ready to support not just in combat operations, but in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and critical infrastructure across the nation.

    “In moments like this, the Air Force reaffirms its role not just as a defender of the skies, but also as a dependable partner to the Nigerian people”.