₦airaland Forum

[/b]Nigerian Airforce operations face steep cost challenges, says Air Chief [b]



The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has disclosed the enormous cost of sustaining air operations in Nigeria’s multiple theatres of security operations, describing it as a “very expensive endeavour.”

Speaking at a media parley held in Abuja as part of activities marking the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), the Air Chief explained that executing a single sortie with advanced unmanned aerial systems could cost Nigeria hundreds of thousands of dollars.

He cited an example of the Chinese-made Wing Loong II Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV), which is currently deployed in several operations across the country.

“The cost of a single missile fired by the Wing Loong II UAV is about $156,000, while the bomb it carries costs approximately $95,000 to $96,000,” Abubakar said.

“So, when we deploy this UAV, for example, to neutralise 10 or 20 terrorists, you are looking at a munition cost of over $300,000 for that one mission. That’s not even accounting for fuel, man-hours, maintenance and other logistics,” he added.

Abubakar noted that while it is necessary to carry out kinetic actions to suppress threats, the decision to strike is often weighed against operational cost and the imperative to avoid collateral damage.

He said the high cost of operations is a challenge the Force has to manage carefully while remaining effective in achieving national security objectives.

The Chief of Air Staff emphasized that flying hours alone have increased significantly. According to him, between late 2023 and mid-2024, the NAF flew over 10,500 hours in close to 7,000 sorties, executing nearly 6,000 missions in multiple theatres of operation.

“These operations include armed reconnaissance, air interdiction, ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance), close air support, and tactical raids,” he said.

He stressed the importance of precision engagement due to the presence of civilians in conflict areas and the limited use of general-purpose munitions, noting that this further adds to the complexity and cost of missions.

The Air Chief called for increased national support, noting that the Air Force alone cannot bear the burden of national security, and that other institutions must also contribute within their mandates.


Source; @zagazola

bidex111:
[/b]A MUST WATCH[b]


[/b]IS has released 15 minutes of footage showcasing ISWAP’s recent activity. The characteristically well-produced video - narrated in Arabic with Hausa subtitles - shows assaults on bases, IED attacks, executions, and the weapons and vehicles captured by the group[b]


Link; https://x.com/WerbCharlie/status/1924517981981139313?t=1eBcmD0FAcr-NltKF1YfWQ&s=19

Source: @werbcharlie

More videos showing weapons & equipment carted away, Honestly weapons captured from this F.O.B is a serious setback, it will further fuel this terrorist attacks for years.....

ISWAP’s latest propaganda video, “Fight them, and God will punish them by your hands”, is nothing different from previous ones. The 16 mins video showcases attacks on military bases, including Buni Gari. What stands out is the amount of weapons seized. pic.twitter.com/0yegKncchj

— Malik Samuel (@Sazedek) May 19, 2025

[/b]A MUST WATCH[b]


[/b]IS has released 15 minutes of footage showcasing ISWAP’s recent activity. The characteristically well-produced video - narrated in Arabic with Hausa subtitles - shows assaults on bases, IED attacks, executions, and the weapons and vehicles captured by the group[b]


Link; https://x.com/WerbCharlie/status/1924517981981139313?t=1eBcmD0FAcr-NltKF1YfWQ&s=19

Source: @werbcharlie

More ..

[/b]Troops Neutralise 5 Terrorists in Ambush Operation in Gwoza, Recover Arms and Supplies[b]



Troops of 7 Division/ Sector 1 Operation Hadin Kai, in collaboration with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF), have neutralised five terrorists during a successful ambush operation in Gwoza Local Government Area of Borno State.

Zagazola understands that thr operation, which took place at about 9:45 a.m. on Thursday, was carried out along the Pulka road axis, near the Mandara Mountains.

According to military sources, the troops deployed from the Forward Operating Base (FOB) Pulka and engaged suspected terrorists in a fierce gun battle at a suspected crossing point.

“During the firefight, the ambush team neutralised five terrorists, while several others escaped with suspected gunshot wounds,” the source said.

Items recovered from the scene include two AK-47 rifles, one AK-47 magazine, four rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition, one bicycle, and three bags containing grains.

The operation is part of ongoing intensified efforts by the Nigerian Military and allied security forces to eliminate Boko Haram/ ISWAP terrorist elements and restore peace in the North-East region.


Source: @zagazola

More...

[/b]PRESIDENT TINUBU INDUCTS TWO NEW AGUSTA 109 TREKKER HELICOPTERS INTO NAF ORDER OF BATTLE[b]

The skies over Abuja bore witness to a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s renewed commitment to national defence. In commemoration of the 61st anniversary of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, officially inducted two state-of-the-art Agusta 109 Trekker helicopters into the Nigerian Air Force fleet.

Standing tall at the Presidential Air Fleet Apron, this moment was more than a ceremony—it was a clear message of resilience, readiness, and renewed hope. “This induction is a strategic statement of intent—a demonstration of our collective resolve to defend our nation and reinforce Nigeria’s leadership in Africa,” President Tinubu declared.

From peacekeeping missions in Mali and Sierra Leone to anti-terrorism operations at home, the Nigerian Air Force has been a beacon of operational excellence. With the addition of the Agusta 109 Trekker—a versatile, twin-engine, multi-role helicopter—the NAF’s capabilities in reconnaissance, close air support, and humanitarian missions will be further amplified.

President Tinubu emphasized the administration’s unwavering support: “Neither economic prosperity nor justice can prevail amidst insecurity... Our Armed Forces must intensify efforts to defeat the enemies of our collective progress.”

Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, Chief of the Air Staff, called the moment a major milestone in fleet modernization. “The dynamic security landscape demands agility and responsiveness. These aircraft are a leap forward in ensuring mission readiness across all domains.”

From the tarmac to the clouds, this induction is more than just new equipment—it is a renewed vow to every Nigerian: that our skies remain secure, our democracy protected, and our nation united in strength and purpose.

#NAF61 #RenewedHope #NigeriaAirForce #NationalSecurity #PresidentialLeadership #Agusta109Trekker #ModernMilitary #nigeriaforward

bidex111:
[/b]ISWAP last night dislodged the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte, Borno state. As usual, it carted away weapons and destroyed some equipment, including military vehicles. Soldiers have returned to the base this morning.
It’s very embarrassing that soldiers cry as they identify 4 of their colleagues killed in last night’s ISWAP’s attack on the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte.

Some sources claimed ISWAP went away with over 40 military motorcycles & enough weaponry to arm a F.O.B. The destruction of the base is a huge setback to the ongoing conflicts[b]

Source: @sazedek

Two eliminated ISWAP terrorists in Marte by Nigerian Army Troops of Operation Hadin Ka

Concl...

More..

[/b]NAF @ 61: BRIDGING THE SKIES AND STREETS OF LAGOS[b]

To mark its 61st anniversary, the Nigerian Air Force opened its gates, hearts, and history to the public in a vibrant Open Day hosted by the Headquarters Logistics Command at the 631 Aircraft Maintenance Depot. For many Lagosians, it was their very first encounter with the Air Force up close.

“I always thought the Air Force was a world far away,” said Mrs. Adeyemi, a local schoolteacher who came with her students. “Today, they made us feel like we belong in that world too.”

From schoolchildren wide-eyed at the sight of aircraft cockpits, to community leaders shaking hands with Air Force personnel, the day was filled with stories waiting to be told. Exhibits of uniforms and operations, interactive sessions, and a breathtaking aerial showcase made it more than just a celebration, it became a shared experience.

Air Vice Marshal Adeniran Ademuwagun, Air Officer Commanding Logistics Command, expressed the heart behind the event:
"We want these young people to see that the Air Force will always serve the nation—and that one day, we will need patriotic citizens like them to take our place.”

Little Amina, clutching a paper jet she made at the craft booth, whispered to her mom:
“When I grow up, I want to fly and protect people too.”

It was a simple moment, but it captured everything the day stood for. AVM Ademuwagun described the event as a bridge, uniting military and civilian hearts through trust and shared national pride.

“Our commitment to cutting-edge technology and strategic defense remains strong,” he added, “but so does our commitment to the people we protect.”

From ground displays to awe-inspiring aerial maneuvers, the event served as a bold reminder: the Nigerian Air Force isn’t just defending the skies; it’s uplifting the spirit of the nation.

In opening its gates, the Nigerian Air Force also opened a door—to understanding, to inspiration, and to unity. Because when the skies and the streets come together, a nation truly soars.

#NAFat61 #BridgingHearts #WingsOfHope #NigerianAirForce #LogisticsCommand #CommunityAndCourage #InspiringTheFuture

[/b]DICON CEMENTS PARTNERSHIP WITH D7G TO REVAMP LOCAL PRODUCTIONS[b]

In a strategic move to realise the actualization of Military Industrial Complex, the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) has firmed up collaboration with D7G Company Limited.

This was afirmed by the Director General DICON Major General Babatunde Ibrahim Alaya when the D7G Team paid him a visit at the DICON Headquarters Kaduna.

General Alaya added that D7G remains a highly reputable and reliable partner that could easily drive DICON towards the realisation of her dream of becoming the hub of Military Industrial Complex.

General Alaya reiterated that all arrangements had been put in place to enhance production of arms ammunition and other military hardwares while promoing self sufficiency and reliance in indigenous production of defence related products.

"It could be recalled that DICON-D7G Board had been convened recently to boost local production of military hardware and my dream is to consolidate on the collaborative effort as soon as possible". General Alaya asserted.

Speaking during the visit, the Chief Executive Officer D7G Mr Osman Chennar gave assurances of revamping production activities in DICON reiterating that DICON-D7G partnership will usher Nigeria into a new dawn in the area of local production of military hardwares.

Mr Osman appreciated the production facility and manpower capabilities possesed in DICON adding that the partnership will foster capacity development among DICON staff and boost revenue generation for the Country.

Highlights of the visit included guided tour of DICON Ordnance Factory as well as exchange of Surveniers.

Haruna Mohammed Sani
Lieutenant Colonel
Deputy Director Public Information/Media
DICON
13 May 2025

Exnavyboy62:
At this point the Chief of Army Staff and other higher ups in the Nigerian army have to be called in for questioning. This is very embarrassing. The armed forces of Nigeria needs a thorough overhaul.

They'll rather be thinking of how to deal with the soldiers who posted the video, for me our main problem are the top hierarchy in the @armyHQ.

On the other soldiers too are not fighting the way they should, These might be due to low morale, ever-changing nature of CION and lack of necessary equipment to fight. The little equipmemt we have are been burnt away on regular basis

Seems this N.S.C.D.C. new riffle can be used with normal magazine and drum types.

bidex111:
More of N.S.C.D.C.

Concl...

bidex111:
More..

More of N.S.C.D.C.

[/b]VICTORY IS THE MISSION: CAS RALLIES FRONTLINE TROOPS AMID NAF @ 61 CELEBRATION[b]

As the Nigerian Air Force marks 61 years of gallant service to the nation, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, made a heartfelt statement to frontline troops in Katsina.

He reminded the troops that "victory is the mission." He urged them to stay vigilant, focused, and unwavering until peace is fully restored across Nigeria. “We’ve come far, but we’re not done. Now is the time to intensify our strikes, to push harder, and give Nigerians lasting hope,” the CAS charged.

The visit wasn’t just symbolic it was a reaffirmation of leadership, unity, and commitment. From inspecting operational platforms to engaging with personnel, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar showed that the celebration is about progress, sacrifice, and the will to win.

NAF remains ready, alert, and determined to protect Nigeria—every day, in every theatre.

#NAFat61 #VictoryIsTheMission #CASInTheFrontline #HopeInAction #NigerianAirForce #SecureNigeria #AirPowerForPeace #ServiceAndSacrifice

Odunayaw:
I'm already numb to this type of thing. Names like Marte is stuck in my mind in this war. I don't know what kind of readiness these bases have.

Zero Readiness !

bidex111:
[/b]ISWAP last night dislodged the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte, Borno state. As usual, it carted away weapons and destroyed some equipment, including military vehicles. Soldiers have returned to the base this morning.
It’s very embarrassing that soldiers cry as they identify 4 of their colleagues killed in last night’s ISWAP’s attack on the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte.

Some sources claimed ISWAP went away with over 40 military motorcycles & enough weaponry to arm a F.O.B. The destruction of the base is a huge setback to the ongoing conflicts[b]

Source: @sazedek

Video link; https://x.com/ChuksEricE/status/1921990785383202980?t=m5-x-PgZV1LUI9Nqok2m_Q&s=19

[/b]Two LEA Staff Killed in Bomb Blast on Damboa–Maiduguri Highway[b]



Two staff members of the Damboa Local Education Authority (LEA) were killed on Monday in a bomb blast along the Damboa–Maiduguri highway.

Sources told Zagazola Makama that the victims, identified as Blessings Luka and Gideon Bitterleaf, were travelling from Damboa to Maiduguri when the incident occurred.

According to eyewitnesses, the deceased were seated in front of a Toyota Hiace van transporting mangoes when the vehicle struck an improvised explosive device suspected to have been planted by insurgents.

The explosion claimed both lives instantly, leaving few others with injuries.

A source within the Damboa Local Government confirmed the identities of the victims, describing them as committed and hardworking education officials.

Security operatives have since cordoned off the area, while investigations are ongoing to identify those responsible for the attack.



Source: @Zagazola

[/b]ISWAP last night dislodged the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte, Borno state. As usual, it carted away weapons and destroyed some equipment, including military vehicles. Soldiers have returned to the base this morning.
It’s very embarrassing that soldiers cry as they identify 4 of their colleagues killed in last night’s ISWAP’s attack on the 50 Task Force Battalion in Marte.

Some sources claimed ISWAP went away with over 40 military motorcycles & enough weaponry to arm a F.O.B. The destruction of the base is a huge setback to the ongoing conflicts[b]

Source: @sazedek

bidex111:
#NSCDC
#COMBAT READY

More..

Odunayaw:
It seems the airmen doing the exhibition have forgotten they are giving lecture to civilians who don't care about barrel length and other military jargons.

A better job should have been done to explain the armaments in an engaging way.

[/b]OPHK: TROOPS NEUTRALIZE SCORES OF BOKO HARAM INSURGENTS IN SAMBISA FOREST[b]

In a renewed offensive against Boko Haram terrorists hibernating within the Sambisa Forest, troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), have launched a successful operation on May 11, 2025, neutralizing several insurgents and recovering assorted weapons.

During the operation in Ladin Buttu, which is one of the key terrorist enclaves, troops engaged the insurgents in a fierce battle, leveraging their superior firepower and dexterity to neutralize five terrorists. The troops also recovered five fully loaded AK47 rifle magazines and other ordnance.

Further operations in the area revealed signs of blood on the terrorists' withdrawal routes, indicating that those who escaped suffered gunshot wounds. Ladin Buttu is a strategic location for the insurgents, allowing them to coordinate logistics and move within the forest.

Operations HADIN KAI leadership commended the troops for their bravery and tactical prowess, noting that the exploit aligns with the recent operational directives of the Chief of Army Staff for invigorating offensive operations on all fronts"

REUBEN KOVANGIYA
Captain
Acting Deputy Director
Army Public Relations
Headquarters Theatre Command Operation HADIN KAI
11 May 2025

bidex111:
[/b]INNOVATION MEETS COMMUNITY AT AFRDI’S OPEN DAY IN IDO-OSUN[b]

In the heart of Osun State, something remarkable unfolded at Ido-Osun. As part of the Nigerian Air Force’s 61st Anniversary celebrations, the Air Force Research and Development Institute (AFRDI) opened its gates to the public, for the first time in years, welcoming residents from Osogbo and nearby communities to experience a world often seen from afar.

Guests were guided through the corridors of innovation, where Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), Artificial Intelligence labs, and precision CNC machines told stories of local ingenuity powering national defense.

“This is amazing. I never imagined such advanced technology was being developed right here in Osun,” said a young student, as he examined a drone up close.

The exhibitions didn’t stop at tech. Attendees explored displays of NAF equipment, including AK-47 rifles, pistols, and military uniforms, while documentaries and video clips brought the Air Force’s proud legacy to life.

Addressing the crowd, AFRDI’s Director General, Air Vice Marshal PO Oahimire, emphasized the importance of partnership between the military and the public. “The Nigerian Air Force is not just ours, it’s a national treasure, one we all share and contribute to,” he said.

A local community leader captured the spirit of the day perfectly: “This event brought us closer. It showed us the human side of the Air Force, the innovators, the protectors, the patriots. We are grateful.”

Visitors left not just with memories, but with pride, pride in what is being built behind the scenes, and in the people building it.

#NAF61 #AFRDI #InnovationInUniform #AirForceNigeria #OsunState #CommunityEngagement #TechInDefense #PrideInService

[/b]NAF @ 61: INSPIRED BY HELICOPTERS IN ENUGU, UCHE DREAMS OF FLYING FOR NIGERIA[b]

Until yesterday, Uche Emenogu had never seen a military aircraft up close. But after witnessing the Nigerian Air Force Open Day at NAF Base Enugu, the 17-year-old now has just one dream, to become a pilot in the NAF.

“I saw the aircraft take off and land, and how they do checks before flying. It was amazing,” said Uche. “Now I want to join the Nigerian Air Force. I want to fly and defend my country.”

Uche was one of hundreds of excited students and youths who attended the NAF @ 61 Open Day, where aircraft, weapons systems, and military gear were put on display. The event was a combination of fun and learning.

The Air Officer Commanding Ground Training Command, AVM Ahmed Shinkafi, represented by AVM Anthony Martins, inspired youths from the Zone to identify their potentials in line with the opportunities available in the Nigerian Air Force. “You can thrive in the Nigerian Air Force with your brilliant young minds, both male and female, ,” he said.

The event, which included exhibitions, aircraft tours, and interactive sessions, opened the eyes of many like Uche, who now sees the sky not just as a limit, but as his future.

**#NAF@61 #AirForceDreams #InspiredToServe #UcheTakesFlight #EnuguOpenDay**

[/b]EX OBANGAME EXPRESS DAY 2[b]

On Saturday, May 10, 2025, the ongoing Exercise OBANGAME EXPRESS conducted Scenario Alpha, which is a simulated Visit, Board, Search, and Seizure (VBSS) Operation.

The operation was conducted by Nigerian Navy Ships KADA and FARO in conjunction with Spanish warship RELAMPAGO.

It also included the insertion of Additional Nigerian Navy Special Boat Service (NNSBS) elements via helo leading to the arrest of an erring vessel.

OBANGAME EXPRESS is an annual multi-national maritime exercise that brings all Gulf of Guinea states and foreign partners together for a coordinated maritime response to threats in the region.

#OBANGAMEEXPRESS
#SpanishNavy
#NigerianNavy
#OnwardTogether

Odunayaw:
Ah SF!! Omo

Na so we see am O!

[/b]Troops ambush terrorists in Dikwa, discover bodies of two insurgents[b]



Troops of 24 Task Force Brigade, Operation Hadin Kai, in conjunction with Hybrid Forces, have successfully ambushed fleeing Boko Haram terrorists in Koibe village, leading to the recovery of two corpses and disruption of enemy movement in Dikwa Local Government Area of Borno State.

Sources told Zagazola Makama on Saturday that the ambush, carried out under Operation Desert Sanity IV, was executed in the early hours of May 9, 2025, following actionable intelligence.

At about 2:30 a.m., troops made contact with terrorist elements at Koibe village, and engaged them in a gun battle.

The terrorists were forced to withdraw in disarray, likely with gunshot wounds, towards the Boboshe axis,”said the sources.

During a follow-up exploitation at the initial location, troops discovered two freshly dug graves containing the bodies of neutralised terrorists at Boboshe.

While attempting to recover the bodies at around 11:00 a.m., troops again came under fire from remnant terrorist elements and returned fire, pursuing the fleeing insurgents toward the Gargash general area.

Source: @Zagazola

[/b]Two soldiers under probe for alleged collaboration with ISWAP terrorists, leaking troops movement in Yobe[b]



Two soldiers of the 135 Special Forces Battalion are currently under investigation for alleged collaboration with ISWAP terrorists, Zagazola Makama has learnt.

Military sources told Zagazola Makama that the soldiers’ telephone communications were tracked by Security Intelligence, linking them to the recent kidnapping of commuters along the Gashua–Azare highway in Yobe State.

The intercepted calls reportedly indicated that the suspects likely leaked the movement of a patrol team along the Buratai–Kamuya–Azare–Gashua route to the insurgents, enabling the ambush.

It was gathered that the suspected leak contributed to the terrorists’ operation, which was later foiled by troops of the 135 SF Battalion during a swift rescue mission on May 9.


Source: @Zagazola