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  • Excitement as NAF engineers revive aircraft grounded for 23 years

    Excitement as NAF engineers revive aircraft grounded for 23 years

    Nigeria Air Force (NAF) says its aircraft engineers and technicians have, in a phenomenal display of ingenuity, reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft which had been grounded for 23 years.

    The NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, AVM Olusola Akinboyewa, in a statement issued on Wednesday in Abuja, described the development as a remarkable feat.

    Akinboyewa said that the achievement underscored NAF’s growing capacity for indigenous maintenance to bolster its operational readiness, whilst contributing to Nigeria’s inherent aviation capabilities.

    He said that the aircraft, originally designated “5N-MPS” and operated by the now defunct Ministry of Mines, Power and Steel, had been grounded at the DANA facility in Kaduna since 2001.

    “However, sequel to a presidential directive for ministries, departments and agencies to transfer such grounded platforms to the NAF for evaluation and possible reactivation, the NAF initiated this project.

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

    “The reactivation process, for the grounded aircraft – re-designated “NAF-039” – was conducted between June and September 2024, involving meticulous planning and painstaking execution by a crack team of five engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group (Engr Gp), Kaduna,” he said.

    According to him, the accomplishment, which requires the application of advanced engineering techniques and adherence to stringent aviation standards, attests to NAF’s growing technical expertise and resolute determination.

    Akinboyewa said that the success of the project carried significant strategic implications, bearing in mind that beyond enhancing the NAF’s fleet, it symbolises the service’s resolve to achieve self-reliance in aviation maintenance for operational effectiveness.

    According to him, it also serves as a morale booster for the NAF engineers and technicians, showcasing their ability to undertake complex projects which otherwise would have been outsourced to foreign entities.

    The Chief of the Air Staff, (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, lauded the 431 Engr Group for their dedication, emphasizing the broader import of the achievement.

    Abubakar said that the project was a reflection of NAF’s resolve to optimise resources, strengthen its fleet and uphold national security through operational excellence.

    He said that the successful reactivation of NAF 039 was not just an operational gain, but a statement of NAF’s capabilities and commitment to self-reliance.

    The CAS said that the accomplishment built upon NAF’s earlier successes, such as the conduct of the first in-country 4,800-hour inspection on another DO-228 aircraft in January 2024.

    He said that the milestones highlighted NAF’s growing capacity for advanced in-house aircraft maintenance and served as a foundation for future projects aimed at achieving technical autonomy.

    “The reactivation of NAF-039 after 23 years is more than an engineering achievement; it showcases the NAF’s ingenuity, resilience and commitment to operational excellence.

    “It also reaffirms the Air Force’s vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity, while highlighting its dedication to resource optimisation and self-reliance.

    “The newly-reactivated aircraft will bolster the NAF’s tactical airlift capabilities by joining the fleet of DO 228 aircraft, a platform still actively used worldwide.

    “This achievement solidifies the NAF’s position as a formidable player in Africa’s aviation sector, with the potential to lead in indigenous maintenance and technical innovation,” he said.

  • NAF logged nearly 20,000 flight hours in 2024 – CAS

    NAF logged nearly 20,000 flight hours in 2024 – CAS

    Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has said that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has so far logged nearly 20,000 flight hours in the course of its operations in the year 2024.

    Abubakar made this known on Thursday in his goodwill message to the officers and airmen of the NAF on the occasion of Christmas celebration.

    He said with the 20,000 flight hours, the NAF had demonstrated resolute commitment to securing the nation’s interests, particularly in the fight against insurgency, banditry and other  anti-economic activities.

    The CAS said that the outgoing year brought its share of challenges across all theatres of operations.

    He said that the valor, determination and resilience of the personnel enabled them to record significant operational Successes.

    “To my gallant officers and airmen, as we draw the curtain on another eventful year, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to every member of NAF family.

    “I want to especially thank you for your unwavering dedication, resilience and sacrifice in the service of our great nation.

    “Your commitment and professionalism have been instrumental in ensuring the security and stability of our beloved country, ” he said.

    The CAS said these accomplishments reflected the patriotism and love for the nation, adding that he was proud of all the achievements of the force so far.

    According to him, in addition to operational successes, the NAF had also seen substantial improvements in aircraft serviceability rates.

    He said that the focus on personnel training had also yielded impressive results while continuing to build expertise from within.

    Abubakar noted that the emphasis on internal development was to strengthen the force and move them towards greater self reliance and reducing dependence on foreign support.

    He urged the personnel to sustain the spirit of synergy and interagency cooperation, adding that modern warfare demanded united efforts towards achieving enduring peace and security.

    “Let us continue to strengthen our partnerships with sister services and other security agencies working together to build a safer and more secure Nigeria.

    “Let us approach this new year with renewed vigor, unwavering resolve and a deep belief in our mission, together there is no obstacle we cannot overcome, ” he said.

    Abubakar expressed confidence that the NAF would grow stronger, more resilient and more capable as they remain steadfast in their mission to protect and serve.

    “On behalf of the Nigerian Air Force leadership and my family, I extend my best wishes to you for a Merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous new year.

  • NAF to acquire more attack jets, helicopters

    NAF to acquire more attack jets, helicopters

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced plans to acquire 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack jets and 10 AW-109 Trekker Helicopters to boost its air capabilities in the fight against insurgency.

    The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar made this known at the Christmas luncheon with NAF personnel on Wednesday in Maiduguri.

    “In addition to the A-29 Super Tucanos, JF-17 Thunders and the T129 Attack Helicopters recently procured, the Nigeria Air Force remains committed to advancing its air capabilities to boost operational readiness,” the CAS said.

    Abubakar said the current security challenges in the country required modern and versatile platforms to be addressed.

    He said that NAF would continue to sustain capacity building initiatives, personnel training as well as research and development to enhance operational efficiency.

    The CAS urged personnel to use the Christmas period for reflection, gratitude and unity.

    “You are here in the Theatre of War standing as the true guardians of our nation’s peace and security. For that, I cannot thank you enough.

    “Our concerted efforts backed by strategic planning, community engagements as well as firm resolve have incapacitated the insurgents, disrupted their activities and reduced their ability to harm innocent lives..

    “Let me use this opportunity to remember our fallen heroes who have paid the supreme price in the service of our fatherland.

    “We would forever hold them dear in our thoughts and hearts as heroes of the society. May their gentle souls rest in perfect peace.”

    In his goodwill message to the troops, Gov. Babagana Zulum also assured them that his government and citizens of Borno had deeply appreciated their sacrifices.

    The governor represented by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Prof. Usman Tar, lauded the vital role of NAF in the fight against terrorism and humanitarian support in northeast and Borno in particular.

    “We cannot forget in a hurry the timely intervention of the Nigerian Air Force during the recent flood disaster in Maiduguri ranging from Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance, airlift of relief materials, medical outreaches and other welfare programmes.

    “The agility and resilience you exhibited in this course is a sheer example of true spirit of service for humanity,” the governor said.

  • NAF destroys bandit kingpin’s residence, arms depot

    NAF destroys bandit kingpin’s residence, arms depot

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Component of “Operation Fansan Yamma” has killed several terrorists in an airstrike on a terrorist kingpin’s residence in Palele, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger State.

    This is contained in a statement by the NAF Director, Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, on Monday in Abuja.

    Akinboyewa said that the air interdiction was conducted on Nov. 16, adding that a critical arms depot and residence of the notorious kingpin, Mallam Saleh, a loyalist of Dogo Gide were destroyed.

    He said that Saleh’s reign of terror had plagued vulnerable communities in Shiroro, with attacks, abductions, and extortion leaving a trail of fear.

    According to him, the air component had been tracking his movements, gathering crucial intelligence to dismantle his operations.

    “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.

    “This bold operation is part of the NAF’s logistics strangulation strategy, aimed at decimating terrorist strongholds and restoring peace to the region,’’ he said.

    Akinboyewa assured that the NAF would maintain dominance through the collaboration with surface forces, constant patrols, situational awareness, and targeted interdictions.

    According to him, the mission has significantly degraded the terrorists’ operational capabilities

  • NAF airstrikes kill scores of bandits in Zamfara

    NAF airstrikes kill scores of bandits in Zamfara

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma successfully neutralised several bandits in Babban Kauye village, Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara, on November 15.

    The Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, in a statement on Sunday, said success was achieved in further air interdiction missions on large gathering of bandits in the area.

    Akinboyewa said that NAF had sustained its aggressive air interdiction campaign, nicknamed Operation Farautar Mujiya, aimed at eliminating bandit threats in Northwestern Nigeria.

    He said the operations led to the neutralisation of numerous bandits, including key loyalists of infamous bandit leaders Dan-Isuhu and Dogo Sule.

    According to him, the airstrikes targeted a large assembly of bandits in Babban Kauye village.

    “Intelligence sources revealed that the congregation of the criminals was perfecting plans for coordinated attacks against military personnel or civilians along the Tsafe axis.

    “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,” he said.

    Akinboyewa said that Tsafe Local Government Area had 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.

    According to him, these groups have utilised remote settlements like Babban Kauye as strategic safe havens, from which they coordinate and execute their nefarious operations.

    He said that the latest airstrikes represented a robust response and support for the theatre command of Operation Fansan Yamma by the NAF.

    This, he said, aligned 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.

    “The NAF remains resolute in its mission, in collaboration with sister services and other security agencies to secure the region and indeed the nation as a whole.

    “We will work to eliminate threats posed by terrorists, bandits and all other criminal elements working against the peace and prosperity of our beloved country,” he added.

  • Many terrorists reportedly wasted after NAF airstrikes in Borno

    Many terrorists reportedly wasted after NAF airstrikes in Borno

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the air component of Operation Hadin Kai, has said many Boko Haram terrorists were wasted at two locations in Bula Marwa in Borno.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, issued on Monday in Abuja.

    Akinboyewa said the NAF, having identified Bula Marwa as a high-level meeting site for Boko Haram’s notorious figures, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions further confirmed heightened terrorist activity.

    He said the IRS revealed an influx of motorcycles and gatherings of combatants across the site.

    He said NAF fighter jets were dispatched to the location for an air interdiction mission.

    “On arrival, ISR footage captured suspected terrorists assembling at a rendezvous point on 12 motorcycles.

    “The motorcycles were then traced to a primary meeting location where additional terrorists had been waiting.

    “Accordingly, the first airstrike was executed, effectively engaging the target area.

    “Moments later, ISR aircraft loitering in the vicinity observed several terrorists returning to assess the damage and evacuate their wounded combatants.

    “In response, NAF air assets conducted follow-up strikes, neutralising additional terrorists,” he said.

    Akinboyewa said additional ISR was conducted in the area the same day, identifying another group of terrorists gathering under a large tree at a second meeting site.

  • Nigeria’s Air chief visits Italy to acquire 34 fighter jets, helicopters

    Nigeria’s Air chief visits Italy to acquire 34 fighter jets, helicopters

    Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has led a team of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experts to acquire fighter jets and helicopters from Messrs Leonardo S.p.A in Italy.

    Members of the delegation include officials from the Ministries of Defence and Finance, to finalise acquisition of fighter jets and helicopters from Messrs Leonardo S.p.A in Italy.

    The platforms include 24 M-346 Fighter Ground Attack (FGA) jets and an additional 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters.

    This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Olusola Akinboyewa, on Sunday in Abuja.

    Akinboyewa said that two AW-109 Trekker helicopters had already been acquired by NAF.

    He said that the CAS made a strategic stopover at the Leonardo Headquarters in Rome, where he engaged with top executives to consolidate a long-term partnership between the NAF and the company.

    According to him, Abubakar also inspected the first batch of 6 M-346 jets, noting that 3 are nearing completion, and evaluated key support systems required to boost the NAF’s operational readiness.

    “In the Review Meeting, the CAS received updates on the delivery schedules, confirming that the first three units of 24 M-346 aircraft to be built for Nigeria are expected by early 2025, with subsequent deliveries running until mid-2026.

    “Meanwhile, with 2 Trekkers already acquired, the additional 10 are expected by early 2026.

    “The CAS recommended the establishment of a Programme Management Office to oversee the collaboration and ensure smooth project implementation.

    “He also stressed the need for a maintenance hub in Nigeria to provide long-term support, especially for the M-346 fleet,” Akinboyewa said.

    The NAF spokesman said that the firm’s Aircraft Division put on an aerial display to showcase the performance of the M-346 and highlight its advanced features as part of the visit.

    According to him, capable of both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, the M-346 will significantly strengthen Nigeria’s air combat capabilities.

    “On its part, the AW-109 will bolster combat support roles such as Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR), tactical airlift and Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) amongst others.

    “The M-346 and Trekker acquisitions are key steps towards fleet renewal, in consonance with the CAS Command Philosophy.

    “His philosophy is to transform the NAF for greater agility and resilience, with emphasis on the optimisation of force structure and establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness,” he added.

  • NAF begins Edo guber election materials transportation

    NAF begins Edo guber election materials transportation

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has commenced the transportation of election materials for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to Benin, ahead of the Sept. 21 Governorship election in Edo.

    This is contained in a statement by the Deputy Director Public Relations and Information, NAF, Group Capt. Kabiru Ali, on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Ali said the move was part of a broader effort to ensure timely and secured delivery of sensitive materials necessary for the smooth conduct of the elections.

    He said the trasportation operation had demonstrated the collaboration between NAF and INEC, aimed at facilitating logistics and ensuring a peaceful election process in Edo.

    According to him, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, had recently reiterated NAF’s commitment to provide transportation for the swift movement of electoral materials.

    “This is in fulfillment of NAF’s constitutional responsibility of providing Military Aid to Civil Authority,’’ he said.

  • NAF airstrikes kill over 28 terrorists in Niger

    NAF airstrikes kill over 28 terrorists in Niger

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Component of Operation Whirl Punch on Wednesday, eliminated no fewer than 28 terrorists in strikes at Bassa, Shiroro Local Government Area of Niger.

    This is contained in a statement by the Deputy Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Capt. Kabiru Ali, on Thursday in Abuja.

    Ali said the operation was targeted at the criminal elements terrorising communities in the Local Government Area.

    He said the successful air interdiction mission was conducted on Sept. 11, upon receipt of a request for air support from friendly forces in the area.

    According to him, the NAF air assets observed over 100 terrorists engaging friendly forces in a fierce firefight.

    “After confirming the positions of friendly troops, the NAF conducted precision airstrikes on the terrorists’ positions.

    “The strikes were devastating, neutralizing dozens of terrorists in successive passes.

    “As of the time of reporting, 28 bodies had been recovered from the target area, with several more terrorists, weapons, and burnt motorcycles still being cleared,” he said.

    Ali said the successful operation underscored the NAF’s commitment to protecting the nation and supporting sister services and other security agencies in combating banditry, terrorism, insurgency and all other forms of criminality.

    “Nigerians can be assured that NAF will continue to conduct air operations, both independently and in collaboration with surface forces.

    “This is to eliminate all threats to the peace, prosperity and security of our great nation,” he said.

  • BREAKING: Major shakeup hits Nigerian Air Force

    BREAKING: Major shakeup hits Nigerian Air Force

    A major shakeup has hit the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as the Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has approved the posting and redeployment of some senior officers, including Branch Chiefs, Air Officers Commanding, Directors and Commanders.

    TheNewsGuru.com (TNG) reports this is contained in a statement released on Monday in Abuja by NAF’s Deputy Director in charge of Public Relations and Information, Group Capt. Kabiru Ali. Ali said the redeployment was to enhance operational flexibility, inject fresh perspectives and optimise leadership capabilities.

    He said that those affected are AVM Olasunkanmi Abidoye, who was redeployed from the Defence Headquarters to NAF Headquarters as the Chief of Standards and Evaluation. He added that AVM Adeniyi Amesinlola, who was previously the Commandant of the Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, would now serve as the Chief of Transformation and Innovation at NAF Headquarters.

    According to him, AVM Abubakar Adamu, had been appointed as the Group Managing Director of NAFIL Group while AVM Iboro Etukudo, had been appointed as the Chief of Policy and Plans.

    “AVM Francis Edosa, now the Chief of Training and Operations, AVM Dalhat Ladan as the Chief of Air Intelligence and AVM Suleiman Usman is now the Chief of Communication and Information Systems. AVM Sayo Olatunde and AVM Lanre Oluwatoyin to serve as Chief of Defence Policy and Plans and Chief of Defence Space Administration respectively, at the Defence Headquarters.

    “Also affected are AVM Ibikunle Daramola, previously the Chief of Communication and Information Systems, reassigned as the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, AVM Abiola Amodu, who served as the Director General of the Air Force Research and Development Institute, now the Chief of Aircraft Engineering and AVM Patrick Phillips is now the Chief of Logistics.

    “Additionally, AVM Elijah Ebiowe has been appointed as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Tactical Air Command in Makurdi, while AVM Sunday Aneke takes over as the new AOC Mobility Command in Yenagoa.

    “Other newly appointed AOCs include AVM Abubakar Abdullahi, now overseeing the Air Training Command in Kaduna, and AVM Adeniran Ademuwagun appointed as the AOC Logistics Command in Ikeja,” he said.

    Ali said the CAS had congratulated the new appointees and reiterated the essence of the redeployment, which majorly allows for strategic flexibility and resource optimization for enhanced operational effectiveness of the NAF. He said the CAS also harped on the importance of leveraging deep and critical thinking in proffering strategies for addressing current security challenges.