Airstrikes Kill Over 40 Terrorists In Borno — NAF

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says more than 40 terrorists were killed in coordinated airstrikes carried out in Azir and Musarram areas of Borno State, successfully foiling planned attacks on nearby civilian communities.

In a statement on Sunday, NAF Spokesman, Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, disclosed that the precision strikes were conducted on January 15 and 16 by NAF aircraft operating under the Air Component of Operation Hadin Kai, following credible intelligence on terrorist movements and imminent threats.

Ejodame added that further aerial scans revealed terrorist elements attempting to regroup under nearby tree cover, prompting successive precision strikes that neutralised several of them.

#NAF #BornoState #OperationHadinKai #SecurityUpdate

E don dey set for 9ja oo! Polish Ambassador Hail Nigerian Military, Say Armed Forces Na Backbone of West Africa Security

The Polish Ambassador to Nigeria, Michał Cygan, don praise Nigerian Armed Forces, describe Nigeria as a major stabilising force for West Africa. During courtesy visit to the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, for NAF Headquarters, Abuja, the ambassador talk say the Nigerian Air Force and other services don show high level professionalism and resilience in counter-insurgency and regional security operations. According to statement from Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Cygan also express Poland interest to strengthen defence cooperation with Nigeria to support security priorities and regional peace. He add say Nigeria’s strategic position and sustained security engagements dey contribute well well to stability across the sub-region. On him own part, Air Marshal Aneke highlight the importance of international partnerships in tackling modern and asymmetric threats, noting say NAF remain committed to cooperation with friendly nations for better operations, training and information sharing. He reaffirm say the service dey open to mutually beneficial partnerships to boost counter-insurgency capacity and strengthen both regional and global security. Wahala oo, Nigeria security matter don turn global concern.

Family Demands Justice After Lagos BRT Driver Allegedly Kills Teenage Girl

The family of 19-year-old Elizabeth Fresh from Delta State has called on Lagos authorities to urgently apprehend a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) driver suspected of fatally hitting their daughter at Airport Road junction. The driver allegedly fled the scene.

Elizabeth’s body was deposited at the Nigerian Air Force Base Mortuary on Monday, following the collision. Her father, Corporal Timi Preye Fresh, described the distress of receiving conflicting reports about the incident.

Eyewitnesses said Elizabeth was crossing the road when the bus struck her at high speed and dragged her body. Bystanders reported the driver did not stop despite calls from the crowd.

A local business owner, who had sent Elizabeth to buy vegetables, said the driver removed her phone’s SIM card after the accident. Nearby witnesses condemned the driver’s recklessness and noted that BRT-related pedestrian accidents are recurring.

The Air Officer Commanding, Logistic Command, Air Vice-Marshal Abubakar Suleh, has directed an investigation by the Air Provost Department, noting that Elizabeth’s brother is military personnel.

Elizabeth’s family has also contacted the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), which promised to provide updates within three days on efforts to identify and arrest the driver.

The family and members of the Nigerian Air Force community demand swift justice and stricter road safety enforcement along BRT corridors.

Are Nigeria’s Airstrikes Finally Turning the Tide? Nigerian Air Force Bombs Terrorist Hideouts in Borno’s Timbuktu Triangle Under Operation Hadin Kai

Is Nigeria’s intensified air campaign beginning to weaken terrorist strongholds in the North-East? The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed a major air interdiction operation targeting terrorist locations at AbbagaJiri in the Timbuktu Triangle of Borno State, carried out under the joint task force Operation Hadin Kai.

According to a statement by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the mission followed multi-source intelligence that confirmed active terrorist presence, fortified structures, and concealed logistics facilities in the area. Based on this intelligence, NAF air assets were deployed for integrated surveillance and precision strikes on identified targets.

The Air Force said the operation was carefully designed to degrade terrorist capabilities, deny them sanctuary, and shape the battlespace for advancing ground forces, while strictly adhering to rules of engagement and protecting non-combatants. Targeted structures believed to be used by terrorist elements were destroyed, while a follow-up strike neutralised armed fighters observed converging on the location.

Speaking on the mission, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, described the operation as evidence of the Air Force’s determination to deliver precise and decisive airpower in support of ground troops. He stated that NAF would continue to deny terrorists freedom of movement, hideouts, and logistics wherever they attempt to regroup.

“Our operations are intelligence-led and carefully planned to achieve maximum impact on hostile elements while safeguarding innocent civilians,” Aneke said, reaffirming that pressure will be sustained until terrorist networks are completely dismantled. Ground troops who later advanced into the area reportedly confirmed the effectiveness of the airstrikes, validating the success of the joint air-land operation.

The Borno operation follows a similar strike in December 2025, when NAF targeted bandit camps in Tsafe Local Government Area of Zamfara State under Operation Fansan Yamma, destroying positions linked to a notorious bandit leader, Kachalla Dogo Sule. Those strikes were also based on what NAF described as credible, multi-source intelligence.

As Nigeria continues to battle insurgency and banditry across multiple regions, the latest operation raises key questions: Are precision airstrikes beginning to weaken terrorist networks? Can sustained intelligence-driven operations finally deny extremists safe havens? And will joint air-ground campaigns restore security to communities long terrorised by violence?

NAF ACCELERATES ACQUISITION OF 12 AH-1Z ATTACK HELICOPTERS TO ENHANCE SECURITY

In a strategic move to enhance the operational capacity of the Nigerian Air Force the Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, led a Programme Management Review meeting with senior United States Government officials and representatives of Messrs Bell Textron in San Diego, California, USA.

The engagement focused on fast-tracking the acquisition of 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters, a critical capability enhance professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower in attainment of national security objectives.

A Statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that Air Marshal Aneke expressed appreciation to the United States 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 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.

Reaffirming the NAF’s sense of urgency and commitment, Air Marshal Aneke assured the US team that his administration would take all necessary measures to ensure the helicopters are delivered in the shortest possible time while expressing gratitude to president Bola Tinubu for his unwavering support to the Nigerian Airforce as regards platform acquisition

Air Marshal Sunday Aneke 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 the Service’s operations.

Is Nigeria Now Leading the War in the Air? Why the U.S. Is Shifting to Intelligence Support After Christmas Day Strikes—and What This Means for Terrorism, Banditry, and Security in the North

Is Nigeria taking full control of the aerial war against terrorism and banditry? Why has the United States stepped back from direct airstrikes to an intelligence and reconnaissance role? And what does this new security arrangement mean for the fight against jihadist groups and armed gangs across the country’s troubled regions?

Following U.S. airstrikes carried out on Christmas Day in Sokoto State, the Nigerian Air Force is set to lead subsequent military air operations, as Washington shifts its role to intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance support. A Nigerian official familiar with the new Nigeria–U.S. security framework confirmed that while the United States will now rely mainly on reconnaissance flights, Nigeria remains open to further American strikes if necessary.

What triggered the change? The Christmas night strikes targeted what U.S. officials described as Islamic State–linked sites in northwestern Nigeria. According to Nigerian authorities, the operation was aimed at militants cooperating with the Lakurawa jihadist group and criminal “bandit” networks that have destabilised large parts of the northwest and north-central regions. Both countries reported that an unspecified number of fighters were killed.

But why is the U.S. stepping back now? In the weeks before the strikes, analysts had already noted increased American surveillance flights over Nigeria—activity that has continued since. However, U.S. officials later described the bombing as a “one-off event,” signalling a strategic shift away from direct military action toward intelligence-sharing and operational support for Nigerian forces.

What role did diplomacy play? The strikes came after a tense period in bilateral relations, sparked by U.S. President Donald Trump’s claims in October that violence in Nigeria amounted to the “persecution” and “genocide” of Christians—assertions rejected by Abuja and independent analysts. Although Nigeria later said the dispute had been resolved and that the partnership had been “strengthened,” the unilateral announcement of the strikes by Trump reportedly caused unease in Abuja. Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, subsequently described the operation as a joint effort.

What does this new arrangement mean for Nigeria’s security strategy? Nigeria has battled jihadist insurgency since 2009, mainly in the northeast, while heavily armed criminal gangs have entrenched themselves in rural communities across the northwest and north-central regions. By assuming full responsibility for air operations—with U.S. intelligence support—Nigeria appears to be asserting greater operational sovereignty while maintaining strategic cooperation with Washington.

However, critical questions remain: will intelligence-backed Nigerian air power be enough to contain Islamic State–linked fighters and bandit networks? Could the U.S. return to direct strikes if the threat escalates? And does this shift mark a long-term change in America’s military posture in West Africa—or merely a tactical pause?

As reconnaissance flights continue and Nigeria leads future air operations, the evolving partnership signals both a test of Nigeria’s military capacity and a recalibration of U.S. involvement in the region’s counterterrorism fight.

Pellets of Death: Nigerian Air Force ‘Precision’ Airstrikes in Borno Kill Civilians, Destroy Over 50 Vehicles, Raise Concerns About Targeting Errors

Reports indicate that Nigerian Air Force (NAF) airstrikes on December 13–14, 2025, in Mararaba, Borno State, targeting alleged ISWAP militants, killed six civilians, injured three, and destroyed around 50 vehicles. Victims included commercial drivers, fishermen, and farmers conducting daily business. Survivors claim they were falsely labelled as bandits, and airstrikes struck the same location twice, leaving lasting trauma.
Despite repeated inquiries, NAF has not officially addressed civilian casualties, though it had previously assured protection during operations. The Borno State government also confirmed attempts to obtain information from the Air Force without success. Historical data show NAF has repeatedly caused civilian casualties in prior airstrikes, raising questions about targeting accuracy and operational ethics. Families of victims are calling for accountability and justice.

Nigerian Military Confirms Airstrikes On Bandit Kingpin Kachalla Dogo Sule’s IED Camp In Zamfara

The Nigerian military has confirmed launching coordinated airstrikes on the logistics and IED production camp of notorious bandit kingpin Kachalla Dogo Sule in Zamfara State. The operation, carried out by the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, also targeted Turba Hill in Tsafe Local Government Area, a known hideout for armed groups responsible for killings and roadside bomb attacks. Military authorities said the strikes followed recent deadly IED incidents along the Dan Sadau–Magami axis and resulted in the destruction of key structures and the neutralisation of several bandits. While the Nigerian Air Force described the mission as a major blow to the terror network’s operational capacity, concerns remain about the long-term effectiveness of airstrikes without sustained ground security and community protection.

Nigerian Air Force Confirms C-130 Aircraft Detained In Burkina Faso Has Safely Arrived Portugal For Maintenance

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, NAF 913, earlier detained in Burkina Faso over alleged airspace violations, has safely arrived in Lisbon, Portugal, for scheduled depot maintenance. According to NAF spokesperson Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft completed a ferry flight on December 26, 2025, transiting through Banjul and Casablanca in line with approved flight plans and aviation safety procedures. He noted that the aircraft and crew arrived without incident and remain in high spirits. The detention, which lasted about 10 days, was resolved following diplomatic engagements led by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, including talks with Burkina Faso’s President Ibrahim Traoré, paving the way for the aircraft’s release and onward journey.

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‎NAF C-130 FERRY FLIGHT LANDS SAFELY IN BANJUL EN ROUTE TO PORTUGAL FOR DEPOT MAINTENANCE
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‎The Nigerian Air Force had confirmed that its C-130 aircraft, which earlier made a precautionary landing during a ferry flight, has successfully continued its journey and landed safely in Banjul, The Gambia.
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This is after transiting Accra in line with an updated flight plan, routing through Casablanca to Portugal for scheduled depot maintenance.
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A statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame indicates that the Ferry flights for aircraft programmed for maintenance are required to operate through designated airfields, with movements appropriately spaced in accordance with established aviation safety procedures.
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‎All personnel are safe and the aircraft remains serviceable.
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‎The Nigerian Air Force appreciates the host authorities in Ghana, The Gambia, and other countries overflown for the kind support extended to the crew, and also acknowledges the concern and goodwill expressed by Nigerians.
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‎The Service reassures the public of its unwavering commitment to the highest standards of safety and professionalism in all operations.

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has compensated families affected by the accidental airstrike in Sokoto State that occurred on December 25, 2024. A military investigation confirmed that 13 civilians were unintentionally killed and eight others injured during the operation in Gidan Bisa and Rumtuwa villages, Silame LGA.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, emphasized that the strike, carried out under Operation Fasan Yamma, was based on intelligence reports about suspected terrorists. Following civilian casualty reports, the Air Force conducted a thorough investigation and implemented compensation to promote accountability, ease tensions, and prevent future harm.
Measures to prevent civilian casualties have also been institutionalized, including a Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan to guide operational planning, assessments, and response mechanisms. Governor Ahmed Aliyu praised the Air Force for its accountability and reaffirmed the state’s cooperation with security agencies to maintain peace.
Human rights groups, including Amnesty International, have called for further independent investigations into past airstrikes and military actions in northern Nigeria.
Source: Legit.ng

Nigerian Pilots and Crew Released in Burkina Faso, Head to Portugal

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has announced the release and departure of the pilots and crew of the Nigerian Air Force C-130 Hercules aircraft (NAF 913) that had been detained in Burkina Faso.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Ambassador Tuggar confirmed that following engagement in Burkina Faso, the pilots and crew of NAF C-130 (913) have been formally cleared to depart and are currently en route to Portugal via Accra.

The minister highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation, stating that these efforts continue to yield positive outcomes.

Ambassador Tuggar paid glowing tribute to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and steady guidance which he said proved decisive in resolving the matter through constructive diplomacy and peaceful engagement.

Freed Nigerian Air Force Officer Attributes Emergency Landing in Burkina Faso to Technical Fault

A Nigerian Air Force (NAF) officer, one of 11 personnel recently detained in Burkina Faso, confirmed that their aircraft made an emergency landing in the West African country due to a technical fault, not a hostile act. The aircraft, en route to Portugal, was successfully repaired, allowing operations to continue. The soldiers were released following high-level diplomatic intervention led by Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, conveying a message from President Bola Tinubu. Discussions with Burkina Faso’s military ruler, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, focused on technical assistance, regional security, and cooperation, easing a potential diplomatic standoff.

NAF Pilots, Crew’s Detention in Burkina Faso Resolved — FG

The Federal Government has announced the resolution of the diplomatic issue surrounding the detention of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members in Burkina Faso.

The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement, confirming that the detained NAF personnel are expected to return to Nigeria soon.

According to Tuggar, the breakthrough followed a high-level visit by a Federal Government delegation, which he led, to the Burkinabe leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré. During the engagement, both countries addressed the circumstances surrounding the detention and reached a mutual understanding that led to its resolution.

Beyond resolving the incident, Tuggar said discussions also focused on strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and Burkina Faso, as well as deepening regional integration within the sub-region.

The development underscores ongoing diplomatic efforts by Nigeria to protect its citizens abroad while maintaining constructive ties with neighbouring countries.

#NigeriaNews #NAF #BurkinaFaso #Diplomacy

Burkina Faso Releases Nigerian Air Force Aircraft and 11 Personnel

A Nigerian delegation, led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, held diplomatic engagements with Burkina Faso's military leader, Captain Ibrahim Traoré, regarding a Nigerian Air Force C-130 aircraft carrying 11 personnel that had been detained in the country.

The engagements resulted in the immediate release of the 11 personnel and the aircraft.

Minister Tuggar subsequently met with the freed Air Force members to confirm their well-being.

The delegation and personnel are now en route back to Nigeria.

Nigeria emphasised its adherence to international aviation protocols, expressed respect for Burkina Faso's sovereignty, and distanced itself from any unsubstantiated claims of maltreatment.

Both sides highlighted shared security challenges and the importance of fraternal relations.

This resolution underscores successful diplomacy in de-escalating a potential regional dispute.

The military aircraft made an emergency landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, on December 8, 2025, due to a technical issue.

Burkina Faso authorities detained the personnel and seized the aircraft, citing alleged unauthorised entry into their airspace.

BREAKING: After securing their release from Ibrahim Traoré (military ruler of Burkina Faso), Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, meets with the 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel who were briefly detained after their aircraft made an emergency landing in Burkina Faso a few days ago.

The delegation sent by President Tinubu and the eleven Nigerian Air Force personnel are expected back in Nigeria today (Thursday).

Benin Republic Jails About 30 Suspects, Mostly Soldiers, Over Foiled Coup Attempt Against President Patrice Talon

Authorities in the Republic of Benin have remanded about 30 suspects—most of them soldiers—in custody following a failed coup attempt against President Patrice Talon earlier this month. The suspects were arraigned before the Court for the Repression of Economic Crimes and Terrorism (CRIET) in Cotonou and ordered into pre-trial detention after hours of interrogation. They face serious charges including treason, murder, and endangering state security. The attempted coup briefly saw mutinous soldiers announce Talon’s removal on national television before loyalist forces, reportedly backed by Nigerian Air Force and French special forces, swiftly restored order. Several casualties were recorded, while the alleged coup leader, Lieutenant-Colonel Pascal Tigri, remains on the run amid heightened political tensions in the country.

Burkina Faso to Nigeria: Here we don't negotiate with terr0rists, we K!ll or impr!son them,

Burkina Faso has accused Nigeria of supporting terr0rism, vowing zero negotiation. A senior official said the country either “k!lls or imprisons” terr0rists and wa*rned that the unauthorized landing by a Nigerian Air Force jet was a “terr0rist act,” stressing that any breach of its sovereignty will be met with a firm response.

Nigerian Air Force Denies Spy Mission Claims, Clarifies Details of Seized C-130 Aircraft and Crew in Burkina Faso

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has refuted allegations that one of its C-130 aircraft, which was detained in Burkina Faso, was involved in a covert espionage mission. According to a statement by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the aircraft was on a routine ferry flight to Portugal for scheduled maintenance and was not conducting any intelligence operations.

The NAF clarified that the aircraft made a precautionary landing in Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso, following standard aviation protocols, and was not intercepted or forced to land. It further rejected claims that the 11 crew members on board were intelligence officers or involved in espionage.

The NAF stressed that the crew’s detention was being handled through diplomatic channels, and emphasized the importance of relying on verified information to avoid the spread of misleading narratives that could harm Nigeria’s regional relations and national cohesion.

BREAKING NEWS: Burkina Faso Official Warns Nigeria: "Do Your Worst - We're Ready for Any Showdown".

Tensions have reached a boiling point as Burkina Faso continues to hold eleven Nigerian Air Force pilots and crew members more than 48 hours after detaining the NAF C-130 aircraft.

What began as a diplomatic disagreement has now spiralled into a direct challenge to regional cooperation, international aviation protocols, and long-standing military norms.

Nigerian authorities are reportedly alarmed, while a senior Burkinabé official's defiant statement has intensified fears of a broader diplomatic clash between the two West African nations.