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  • NAF airstrikes destroy 6 illegal refining sites, 5 Cotonou boats in Rivers State

    NAF airstrikes destroy 6 illegal refining sites, 5 Cotonou boats in Rivers State

    In a bid to combat oil theft and the activities of economic sabotoeurs in the Niger Delta Region, the Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has, in the last 3 days intensified air operations, destroying 6 Illegal Refining Sites and 5 Cotonou Boats in Rivers State.

    According to the Director Public Relations and Information of the the NAF, Commodore Edward Gabkwet, On 12 November 2023, intelligence received revealed the sighting of 3 active Illegal Refining Sites (IRS) and 2 Cotonou Boats siphoning crude oil from pipelines at Cawthorne Channel and Alakri in Rivers State.

    The IRS and boats were subsequently engaged and destroyed. Similar strikes were also carried out at Krakama in Rivers State, on the same day, on 3 Cotonou Boats sighted conveying suspected illegal refined products. On 13 November 2023, Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft also struck some sites at Dariama Village in Rivers State following intelligence report of illegal refining activities near the location.

    On arrival, 3 IRS with tanks, pipes and pumping machines as well as Cotonou Boats loaded with suspected illegally refined products were sighted, engaged and subsequently destroyed.

    The intensified air operations should be seen as proactive measures to safeguard the economic interests of the nation and deter criminal elements involved in oil theft.

    The NAF, alongside sister Services and other security agencies, remains committed in its efforts at securing vital government resources and infrastructures in the Niger Delta Region and beyond.

  • Air Force knocks out terrorists in raids in Borno

    Air Force knocks out terrorists in raids in Borno

    The air component of the joint military taskforce, “Operation Hadin Kai’’ knocked out several terrorists in Ajigin and Banki Junction areas of Borno in two major air strikes on Nov. 8 and Nov. 11.

    Director, Public Relations and Information at the Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, stated on Sunday in Abuja that the interdictions were in continuation of efforts at clearing remnant of terrorists in the locations.

    He stated that the terrorists, who had hidden four gun-trucks under thick shrubs, had perfected plans to attack troops’ locations around Damboa and Wajiroko.

    He added that three of the gun-trucks were struck as evidenced by the thick black smoke and fire from them after the strike. The last gun-truck was seen fleeing the scene of the strike.

    “The fleeing truck was subsequently tailed for about 26km until it disappeared under a tree, but was struck and observed to be on fire with no sign of movement at the location.

    “The destruction of the four gun-trucks, along with the occupants, effectively degraded the capability of the terrorists to attack friendly forces and locals within the area,’’ he stated.

    Gabkwet added that air interdiction missions were also conducted at a location seven kilometres east of Banki Junction in Borno on Nov 11.

    The location, he explained, was a well-known terrorists’ enclave hitherto deserted, but suddenly became active with high terrorists’ activities.

    Terrorists used the location as logistics storage area and staging area to attack troops’ locations at Banki Junction in the past, he added.

    “Accordingly, NAF aircraft were scrambled to interdict the location. The aftermath of the strike revealed the destruction of the location with the logistics sites on fire.

    “The terrorists have continued to feel the firepower of air and ground forces and her apparently desperate, confused and at a loss as to why they have been on the receiving end of military onslaughts.

    “The inability of terrorists to move freely and at will is also attributed to the effectiveness of the operational cooperation exhibited by the air and ground troops, which should be commended,’’ Gabkwet stated.

  • NAF announces traffic restriction on Abuja major road

    NAF announces traffic restriction on Abuja major road

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has announced partial traffic restriction along Nyanya-Keffi expressway on Saturday for  its 2023 Annual 10 Kilometers Walk/Jog Exercise to be held in all NAF Bases nationwide.

    The Director, Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, made  this known in a statement on Friday in Abuja.

    Gabkwet said the exercise was part of efforts aimed  at enhancing the physical fitness of the personnel of the NAF, adding that the  exercise would take-off by 6.00 am.

    He said the exercise in Abuja was expected to kick-off from NAF Base, Asokoro Football Field to Defence Headquarters Roundabout.

    He added that the exercise would proceed to Keffi Road/Kugbo Furniture and Pedestrian Bridge – Army Checkpoint Kugbo, and back to Base via the NAF Valley Second Gate.

    “During the period, there will be partial restrictions of traffic along the aforementioned routes.

    “Similarly, the exercise in other locations nationwide is expected to cover major routes around NAF Bases and its environs.

    “Hence, all necessary safety measures have been put in place to ensure a hitch free exercise.

    “Consequently, members of the public, especially motorists and those who reside around AYA, Asokoro and communities around NAF Bases across the nation are advised not to panic but to go about their normal activities,” he said.

  • Oborevwori lauds NAF on war against terrorism

    Oborevwori lauds NAF on war against terrorism

    Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State, on Thursday, commended the Nigerian Airforce for its contribution to the war against insurgency and terrorism in the country.

    Governor Oborevwori gave the commendation when the Air Officer Commanding, AOC, Special Operations Command, Nigerian Airforce, Air Vice Marshal Eko Effiom led a delegation of Air Officers to visit him at Government House, Asaba.

    He particularly commended the AOC for the numerous accolades garnered over the years and for being instrumental to the successes achieved towards the war against insurgency in the North East.

    He stated that through the M.O.R.E Agenda, his administration remained committed to ensuring peace and security throughout the state.

    “I welcome the AOC Special Operations and your team to Delta State, I commend you for an outstanding career you have had in the Nigerian Airforce.

    “I took my time to look at your antecedent and saw all the awards you have received at the course of your career; it gives me delight that you have been instrumental to the successes we have achieved in the war against terrorism in the North-East.

    “We commend the Nigerian Airforce for its spectacular performance in various theatre where terrorist, bandits and other perpetrators of violence have denied Nigerians peace of mind.

    “I want to place on record the consistency, assistance and wonderful cooperation between the security agencies in Delta State, they have been very wonderful and supportive of my administration.

    “In my M.O.R.E Agenda, I have told Deltans that we will enhance peace and security and that is what we are doing.

    “We have not heard of any serious security issue in the last few months; there is no way you can eradicate crime completely but the major ones have been curbed.

    “Your commandant in Delta, is doing very well, he has never missed any security council meeting and I want to assure you that we will give you all the support that is needed to do your job,” Oborevwori stated.

    Earlier Air Vice Marshal Effiom, said he was in the state on an operational visit to one of the units under his command in Warri.

    He said his visit was to ascertain how they were faring with a view to knowing their challenges and how to resolve them.

    “My operational unit have spoken so well about the support that the state has given them.

    “Despite that the unit is in Warri, I needed to drive to Asaba to say thank you to you for the support so far being extended to the Nigerian Airforce unit.

    “I want to assure you that we will continue to support the state towards dealing with security issues here in the state.

    “From what I have seen, it is not too much of a problem and that attests to the level of leadership here in the state.

    “But whatever area you need the Nigerian Airforce to address issues in the state, we assure you of our cooperation. The unit here is doing very well,” he stated.

  • HB Abubakar: Renewed hope for a greater Nigerian Air Force – By Debo Oladimeji

    HB Abubakar: Renewed hope for a greater Nigerian Air Force – By Debo Oladimeji

    By Debo Oladimeji

    Since its establishment, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has played vital roles in military operations against adversaries. While equipment shortages were a challenge in the past, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, upon assuming the role of Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN), has demonstrated an appreciable commitment to supporting and encouraging the AFN in addressing the nation’s various security challenges. Shortly after taking office, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appointed Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar as the 22nd Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) alongside other Service Chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff. Under its new leadership, the NAF has undeniably experienced significant improvements.

    It is no longer news that the NAF has begun to take delivery of modern military equipment which are essential to ongoing operations in different parts of Nigeria. A few weeks back, the NAF received 2 additional Diamond-62 (DA-62) aircraft at a colourful ceremony held in Ilorin, Kwara State. The platforms have since been deployed to the operating theatres in support of the ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in troubled areas within the country.

    Relatedly, the Honourable Minister of Defence (HMOD), Mohammed Badaru Abubakar and the CAS visited Turkiye to facilitate the speedy delivery of the T-129 ATAK helicopters acquired for the NAF by the Federal Government. In all, 6 T-129 ATAK helicopters were procured from Turkish Aerospace Industry, out of which 2 are to be delivered to the NAF in the coming weeks. The remaining helicopters are expected before the end of the Second Quarter of 2024. Several other platforms are being expected by the NAF. They include the M346FA aircraft, AW109 Trekker light attack helicopter, AH-1Z Super Cobra, and the King Air 360i Beechcraft aircraft.

    However, while the supply of advanced military equipment is vital, it’s essential to note that ensuring the welfare of those operating the equipment is equally critical in achieving success in the ongoing conflict. In line with this thought, Air Marshal Abubakar believes that the operational successes of the NAF are majorly hinged on a highly motivated force. This is because he believes that the most valuable resource that the NAF possesses is its personnel and without well-motivated and dedicated personnel, the most sophisticated weapon system will be ineffective.

    As a result, Air Marshal Abubakar has not only triumphed in advocating for additional equipment to remove constraints experienced in prior years and their effects on operations but has also invigorated NAF personnel to further commit to eradicating subversive elements. This commitment comes from an enhanced focus on personnel welfare, aiming to safeguard the peace, progress, unity, and integrity of Nigeria. He has achieved this by actively prioritizing the well-being of all NAF personnel.

    This was further cemented during the recent reception of documents for 43.746 hectares of land from the Kaduna State Government. At the event, Abubakar emphasized that, under his leadership, the NAF is dedicated to ensuring the welfare of its personnel. He highlighted that the NAF’s operational success is heavily reliant on a highly motivated workforce.

    His devotion to the welfare of personnel guided his decision to use the allocated land by the Kaduna State Government for the development of affordable houses for NAF personnel. The proposed post-housing scheme aptly aligns with one of the key enablers of his Command Philosophy of maintaining a highly motivated force by strengthening both welfare and infrastructure. In addition, his administration has awarded contracts for the construction of roads within some NAF establishments, upgrade of transformers, renovation of personnel residents and the construction of new accommodation.

    Closely related to the maintenance of a highly motivated force is providing the needed capacity for troops. Abubakar showed the understanding that personnel can only deliver much on their jobs if they are given the required training needed to carry out assigned tasks. As a result, the NAF is leveraging overseas training to address deficiencies in needed skills and capabilities. The more skilled and proficient the personnel are, the better they can execute their tasks, reducing errors and minimizing the risk of accidents or mishaps.

    As anticipated, a strategic blend of essential equipment and highly motivated troops has yielded recent accomplishments for the NAF. Recent air strikes on various targets in different regions have been notably successful. Of particular significance is the NAF’s precision air strike by the Air Component of Operation Haradin Daji around Sangeko axis of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara State. The terrorists, who were in a convoy of about 70 motorcycles on the road track leading from Kabaro towards Sangeko, were subsequently engaged with several neutralized, their motorcycles destroyed, and others injured.

    Likewise, on 14 October 2023, the NAF carried out air interdiction missions at a newly identified terrorists’ hideout at Bukar Meram, near the Lake Chad region. Feedback received after the strikes revealed the expected outcome was achieved as several terrorists were neutralized while over 40 motorcycles and 6 gun trucks were destroyed.  thereby degrading their ability to attack ground troops as well as innocent Nigerians.

    It is no longer business as usual for Boko Haram and other terrorists as they are now surrendering to the military as they know that their game is up.  There is no hiding place for them any longer with the renewed onslaught against their operation by the NAF. To a large extent, NAF has been able to sustain and enhance its critical air power capabilities while ensuring that the activities of terrorists, insurgents and other criminal elements are significantly curtailed under its new leadership.

    These feats have been largely expedited by 5 key enablers of Air Marshal Abubakar’s Command Philosophy which include: optimizing Force Structure and Establishment for enhanced operational effectiveness, deliberate training and mission-oriented force development, proactive logistics support and strong maintenance culture, prioritizing R and D leveraging cutting-edge technology, strategic partnerships and lessons leant and maintaining a highly motivated force by enhancing welfare and infrastructural renewal.

    His suitability as the 22nd CAS has not only been commended locally but was recognized internationally, thereby affirming the saying “a round peg in a round hole.” His expertise has drawn interest globally, evident from his speaking engagement at the Future Air Force 2023 Conference in Prague, Czech Republic, on September 14, 2023. During this event, he presented an analysis of the current pilot training system and challenges within the Nigerian Air Force, much to the delight of his audience.

    Hence, it’s undeniable that the appointment of Air Marshal Abubakar who is devoted to enhancing the welfare of its personnel has significantly bolstered counterinsurgency efforts in Nigeria. Now, the NAF is well-equipped to overcome previous airpower challenges that plagued the Nigerian state thereby not only renewing the NAF towards the attainment of its constitutional mandate but also contributing immensely to the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.

  • NAF airstrikes eliminate terrorists, destroy gun trucks in Borno, Zamfara

    NAF airstrikes eliminate terrorists, destroy gun trucks in Borno, Zamfara

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Components of Operations Hadin Kai and Hadarin Daji,  have eliminated scores of terrorists in stream of air strikes in their enclaves across the theatres.

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

    Gabkwet said the Air component in the early hours of Saturday, carried out air interdiction missions at a newly identified terrorists’ hideout at Bukar Meram, near the Lake Chad region in Borno.

    He said the strikes became necessary after it was established that recent relocation of terrorists from Suwa to Bukar Meram general area, was for a possible resurgence of attacks on ground troops and innocent civilians.

    According to him, air strikes were authorised at the location in Bukar Meram to decimate the terrorists.

    “Feedback received after the strikes revealed the expected outcome was achieved as several terrorists were neutralised while over 40 motorcycles and six gun trucks were destroyed,” he said.

    NAF spokesman said that similar air strikes were carried out on terrorists on Oct. 11 by the Air Component of Operation Haradin Daji around Sangeko axis of Maru Local Government Area of Zamfara.

    He said the terrorists, who were in a convoy of about 70 motorcycles on the road track from Kabaro towards Sangeko, were subsequently engaged with several neutralised, their motorcycles destroyed, and others injured.

    Gabkwet said the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has commended the professionalism and dedication of the Air Components.

    He quoted Abubakar as saying, “your efforts and support to the ground troops is commendable. Stay focused and do not be complacent as we must continue to give our citizens the confidence they deserve to thrive”.

  • How NAF airstrikes neutralized terrorists in Lake Chad

    How NAF airstrikes neutralized terrorists in Lake Chad

    Report reaching TheNewsGuru.com has it that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) on Monday neutralized several Boko Haram/Islamic States of West Africa Province (ISWAP) terrorists in air strikes in the Tumbuns on the fringes of Lake Chad in Borno.

    Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, NAF’s Director, Public Relations and Information, also confirmed the development via a statement on Monday in Abuja, the Federal Capital Terittory.

    According to Gabwet’s statement, the air strikes obliterated the terrorists’ hideouts, destroyed their structures and strategic logistics’ base in the region.

    He said that Tumbun Fulani and Tumbun Shitu were struck between Sept. 27 and Sept. 30 after confirmation of the terrorists’ activities which constituted a threat to military formations and law-abiding Nigerians residing within the locations.

    At Tumbun Fulani, terrorists were observed loading jerricans in two guntrucks concealed under shrubs.

    Subsequently, NAF aircraft were scrambled to interdict the location, believed to be a major logistics base.

    The statement stated also  that, Battle Damage Assessment revealed several terrorists were neutralised and the guntrucks destroyed.

    He said that similar strikes were also undertaken at Tumbun Shitu after structures believed to be terrorists’ hideout were observed tucked under thick foliage.

    NAF spokesman said that three gun trucks with terrorists were sighted moving into the location, adding that the need to strike the location thus became imperative.

    He said the aftermath of the air strike revealed that several terrorists were neutralised and the trucks destroyed.

    “The determination of the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to significantly limit the activities of terrorists in the Northeast and indeed other parts of Nigeria remains on course.

    “Operational gains by the AFN are indicative of improved synergy and cooperation by all security agencies as well as the unwavering support of all Nigerians,” he said.

  • NAF strikes IPOB/ESN hideouts in Anambra, Imo

    NAF strikes IPOB/ESN hideouts in Anambra, Imo

    The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says the Air Component of Operation UDO KA II, has destroyed several hideouts of the Indigenous People of Biafra and its Eastern Security Network in Anambra and Imo States.

    The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, made this known in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja.

    Gabkwet said the strikes were carried out on Tuesday at Mother Valley Orsumughu in Nnewi South Local Government Area of Anambra and Aku Ihube in Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo.

    He said it was part of on efforts aimed at dislocating their nefarious activities while denying them the liberty to carry out their destructive acts and killing sprees on innocent and law-abiding Nigerians.

    According to him, the strikes at both locations achieved their intended outcome and were deemed effective.

    “Acting on credible intelligence that IPOB/ESN terrorists had perfected plans to disrupt civic activities lined up in the coming days in Anambra and other southeastern states.

    “The air strikes were authorised in conjunction with ground troops and other security agencies on the location believed to also house some of their weapons and ammunitions.

    “The strikes hit the target and were deemed successful following the ball of fire, fleeing terrorists at the location as well as feedback received,” he said.

    Gabkwet said that other air strikes were also conducted, the same day, in close coordination with surface forces at IPOB/ESN hideout camps in Aku Ihube in Imo after detailed analysis of intelligence on the terrorists converging for a likely rendezvous at their hideout.

    He said the air strikes were also authorised to take out the hideout where the targets were acquired and attacked in succession, with a high degree of success.

    According to him, efforts by the NAF and other security agencies to ensure all Nigerians, irrespective of where they reside, are safe and free to conduct their activities without fear or being threatened will continue.

    “While the determination of the security agencies is unwavering, the support of all Nigerians to the security agencies remains critical to defeating these criminal elements whose only intent is to sow fear and division among the citizenry,” he said.

  • NAF air bombardment eliminates eight terrorists, destroy gun trucks

    NAF air bombardment eliminates eight terrorists, destroy gun trucks

    A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft operating under the title Operation Hadin Kai, on Wednesday destroyed a gun truck and neutralised eight terrorists at Baranga village, Marte Local Government Area of Borno.

    Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information said in a statement in Abuja that the strike was executed while the troops were on an armed reconnaissance mission in the area.

    Gabkwet said the airstrike was in furtherance of sustained onslaught against remnants of terrorists in the North East.

    Continuing, he addedthat  the terrorists took cover under thick vegetation after sighting the aircraft, adding that a gun truck with eight terrorists suddenly appeared, speeding off to evade the aircraft.

    “Subsequently, the gun truck was engaged and destroyed, thus eliminating the terrorists.

    “Remnants of terrorists in the Northeast continue to seek the covers of thick forests and vegetation to evade being detected by the Armed Forces of Nigeria and other security agencies.

    “This strike is yet again a clear indication of the commitment of the AFN towards ensuring terrorists find it difficult to randomly roam about freely, attacking law-abiding Nigerians,” he said.

  • NAF air strikes destroy over 30 illegal oil refining sites [Photo]

    NAF air strikes destroy over 30 illegal oil refining sites [Photo]

    The Air Component of Operation Delta Safe has in the last two months, destroyed more than 30 illegal oil refining site in the strikes around Cawthorne Channel and Bille, in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers.

    The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Edward Gabkwet, made this known in a statement on Sunday in Abuja.

    Gabkwet said the air strikes ramped up efforts at denying oil thieves and operators of illegal oil refining sites the opportunity to burst pipelines, operate their illegal oil refineries sites while damaging the environment.

    See photo:

    He said the air strikes conducted at Cawthorne Channel on Friday, destroyed four active illegal refining sites with dug out reservoirs and surface storage tanks suspected to be containing illegally refined products.

    According to him, similar air strikes were also conducted at Bille on Saturday and early hours of Sunday which destroyed three illegal oil refining sites with storage tanks and reservoirs were destroyed.

    “In one of the sites, a Cotonou boat suspected to be siphoning crude oil from a flow station was engaged in several passes and destroyed.

    “In the last two months, Cawthorne Channel and Bille have accounted for the majority of oil theft and illegal oil refining activities in Rivers State.

    “Within this period, over 30 illegal oil refining sites in these two locations have been destroyed by the Land, Maritime, and Air Components of Operation Delta Safe.

    “These efforts will be sustained in these locations and others until oil thieves and their accomplices desist from their illegal activities,” the statement added.