₦airaland Forum

Odunayaw:
Trump would blush

Most BDA coming from civilians from different locations suggests no hit on banditry/terrorists.

bidexiii:
⅝

The US Department of War released a video from the missile launch, seemingly from a ship, which targeted the Islamic State Sahel Province in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria tonight.


Video released:

🚨 BREAKING: The Department of War just released EPIC footage of President Trump's decisive strikes on Muslim terrorists in Nigeria, defending Christians on Christmas Day

I GOT WHAT I VOTED FOR 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/dUA3tpaEMY

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 26, 2025

It seems the tomahawk warhead missile failed to detonate/explode on impact, in three deferent locations.

bidexiii:
[/b]HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO YOU ALL[b]

[/b]CAS MARKS CHRISTMAS AT THE FRONTLINE, SHARES LUNCHEON, HONOURS TROOP SACRIFICES AND BOOSTS MORALE ACROSS OPERATIONAL THEATRES[b]

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on Christmas Day, 25 December 2025, marked the festive season with personnel of the Nigerian Air Force deployed at the frontlines by sharing a special luncheon and conveying goodwill across all operational theatres. The gesture underscored the CAS’s commitment to sustaining morale, demonstrating empathy, and recognising the sacrifices of officers, airmen, and airwomen who remained on duty to safeguard the nation during the festivities.

The Christmas luncheon enabled close interaction between serving and retired senior officers, as well as key security stakeholders, and frontline personnel. Commending their courage and professionalism, the CAS stated, “You are the pride of the nation. While others celebrate with their families, you remain steadfast at your posts, ensuring that Nigerians can celebrate in peace and safety.” He described Christmas at the frontlines as a powerful symbol of patriotism, duty, and selfless service. Simultaneous engagements were conducted in Kainji, Katsina, Maiduguri, Port Harcourt, Makurdi, Kaduna, and Enugu, where the CAS goodwill message was delivered amidst the hosting of luncheons with deployed troops.

Reaffirming the operational significance of sustained vigilance during the festive period, the CAS noted, “Your vigilance during this season sends a clear message that the Nigerian Air Force remains alert, resolute, and fully committed to denying criminal elements any respite, regardless of the time or season.” Reiterating his Command Philosophy, he emphasised that troop welfare remains central to mission success, assuring continued prioritisation of improved living conditions, logistics support, medical care, and timely welfare initiatives. The engagements were warmly received by the troops, who described the gesture as a morale-boosting reminder that their sacrifices are recognised at the highest levels of command.

#NigerianAirForce #CAS #ChristmasAtTheFrontlines #TroopWelfare #OperationalReadiness #MoraleBoost #NationalSecurity #ServiceAndSacrifice

bidexiii:
#NNSBS

#CION
#NNSBSC

bidexiii:
Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation continues to yield positive outcomes.
Following my engagement in Burkina Faso, the pilots and crew of NAF C-130 (913) have been formally cleared to depart and are currently en route Portugal via Accra.

[/b]NAF C-130 FERRY FLIGHT ARRIVES SAFELY IN PORTUGAL FOR SCHEDULED DEPOT MAINTENANCE[b]

The Nigerian Air Force confirms that its C-130 aircraft (NAF 913) arrived safely at the maintainance facility, OGMA in Lisbon, Portugal today 26 December 2025.

bidexiii:
⅝

The US Department of War released a video from the missile launch, seemingly from a ship, which targeted the Islamic State Sahel Province in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria tonight.


Video released:

🚨 BREAKING: The Department of War just released EPIC footage of President Trump's decisive strikes on Muslim terrorists in Nigeria, defending Christians on Christmas Day

I GOT WHAT I VOTED FOR 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/dUA3tpaEMY

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 26, 2025

Possibility of another strike in Offa, Kwara State around 10pm. It might be US or NAF Strike.
Video;

First video from the drone strike in offa kwara state Nigeria, locals are reporting no casualties but who ever was hit here was closely monitored.. The US 🇺🇸 surveillance contractor aircraft covered this area too pic.twitter.com/dkKAXCGoaD

— usman (@secmxx) December 26, 2025

[/b]PRESS RELEASE

EXPLOSION INCIDENT IN GAMBORU MARKET, MAIDUGURI[b]

Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) wishes to inform the general public of an explosion incident that occurred at about 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, 24 December 2025, at a mosque located within Gamboru Market in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC), while Muslim faithfuls were observing evening prayers.

Preliminary findings indicated that the incident was caused by a suspected Boko Haram Terrorist (BHT) suicide bomber, who detonated an improvised explosive device, killing himself and 2 civilians on the scene.

Troops, in conjunction with the Nigeria Police Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team,other sister security agencies, Borno State Government and NEMA responded promptly, secured, and cordoned off the affected area to prevent further harm and ensure public safety. Casualties were immediately evacuated to the General Hospital and the Teaching Hospital in Maiduguri for prompt medical attention.

A total of 32 civilians sustained varying degrees of injuries. Regrettably, 2 of the injured civilians were later confirmed dead at the hospital, while 2 others are currently in critical condition. The remaining injured persons are stable and receiving appropriate medical care.

Troops and other security agencies have since intensified surveillance and security measures within Maiduguri and surrounding areas. Members of the public are advised to remain calm and security conscious especially during the yuletide season. The public is also urged to be on the look out for teenagers with suspicious looks. It is advised to avoid crowded places and maintain extra vigilance at religious places, especially churches during the yelutide period. Citizens are urged to promptly report any suspicious persons or activities to the nearest security post.

OPHK commiserates with the families of the deceased and assures the public of its continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
25 December, 2025

⅝

Faithful007:
📌

The US Department of War released a video from the missile launch, seemingly from a ship, which targeted the Islamic State Sahel Province in Sokoto State, northwest Nigeria tonight.


Video released:

🚨 BREAKING: The Department of War just released EPIC footage of President Trump's decisive strikes on Muslim terrorists in Nigeria, defending Christians on Christmas Day

I GOT WHAT I VOTED FOR 🔥🔥 pic.twitter.com/dUA3tpaEMY

— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) December 26, 2025

More

[/b]NIGERIA POLICE ARREST 22 SUSPECTS, RECOVER FIREARMS, VEHICLES, MOTORCYCLES, ILLICIT DRUGS AND OTHER INCRIMINATING ITEMS[b]

The Nigeria Police Force Special Tactical Squad (STS) has recorded notable operational successes following a series of intelligence-led operations across several states in Nigeria, leading to the arrest of twenty-two (22) suspects linked to serious criminal activities. The suspects were apprehended for offences including armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, cattle rustling, car snatching, economic sabotage, impersonation and drug trafficking. During the operations, the Squad recovered six (6) firearms comprising one LAR rifle, one pump-action gun, one AK-49 rifle, one AK-47 rifle and one SMG rifle, as well as two (2) live rounds of ammunition. In addition, forty-five (45) other exhibits were recovered, including vehicles, motorcycles, illicit drugs and other items reasonably suspected to have been used in the commission of crime.

In a major operation along the Kaduna–Abuja Expressway, STS operatives intercepted a J5 vehicle conveying thirteen (13) brand-new motorcycles, alongside weapons and other incriminating items. Further investigations into the matter led to the arrest of a 35-year-old suspect, Luke Ifeanyi, in connection with armed robbery and economic sabotage. Closely related operations within the Federal Capital Territory also resulted in the arrest of a Kuje Custodial Centre escapee, Ayo Abiodun, who is suspected to have violently robbed a serving Nigerian Army officer. In another development, a 40-year-old suspect, Yusuf Shehu, was arrested, from whom a stolen tricycle was recovered. Investigation revealed that Shehu was impersonating a police officer, and recovered in his possession are a pair of police mobile uniform and a police identity card. More so, STS operatives intercepted a vehicle conveying large quantities of leaves suspected to be cannabis and other controlled substances.

Elsewhere, in Edo State, four (4) suspects were arrested for unlawful possession of prohibited firearms and for alleged violent attacks on a community. In Lagos and Ogun States, two (2) suspects linked to a car-snatching syndicate were apprehended. Additionally, in Nasarawa and other neighbouring States, twelve (12) suspects, namely Mohammed Isa, John Baba, Musa Iliyasu, Rabiu Hussaini, Mohammed Abdullahi, Adamu Hassan, Usman Mohammed, Umar Musa, Muhammadu Ahmad, Inusa Adamu, Shuaibu Mohammed, and Sulaiman Dabo, connected to banditry, kidnapping and cattle rustling were arrested, with several firearms recovered during the operations.

Investigations into all the cases are ongoing, and the suspects will be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations, in line with extant laws.

Meanwhile, commending the operatives of the Special Tactical Squad for their courage and professionalism, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, emphasised that these successes reflect the Force’s dedication to protecting lives, disrupting criminal networks, and ensuring public safety. He urged the public to provide credible information to support the police in the fight against crime and criminality across Nigeria.

CSP BENJAMIN HUNDEYIN, anipr, mipra,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA.

25th December, 2025

[/b]the U.S. Spying on Nigeria? Surveillance Flights Detected After Trump Warning | GRAVITAS[b]



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4KQZ18U4Dk?si=WeRcfBwdmHX9YUhA

[/b]AES Forces Destroy Terrorist Logistics Base Near Mali–Mauritania Border[b]

The combined forces of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) have destroyed a major logistics base belonging to a terrorist group in western Mali, near the Mauritanian border, security sources have confirmed.
The operation, carried out in the Nioro area, followed actionable intelligence gathered through coordinated and proactive efforts by AES security and intelligence services. The strike was executed as part of ongoing measures to prevent cross-border infiltration and disrupt terrorist supply lines in the Sahel region.
According to the sources, the targeted facility served as a logistics and support hub for terrorist elements operating along the Mali–Mauritania axis. Several items used for sustaining armed operations were destroyed during the operation, significantly degrading the group’s operational capacity.
The successful operation underscores the evolving security posture of the AES, which places emphasis on anticipation, intelligence-led actions and close coordination among member states. Security officials noted that the new approach prioritises discretion and efficiency to ensure rapid responses to emerging threats.
The AES authorities reiterated their commitment to safeguarding territorial integrity and maintaining stability across the Sahel, warning that any attempt to destabilise the region would continue to attract a firm and decisive response from the unified forces.


Source: @Zagazola

Concl...

bidexiii:
[/b]Photographs from the SA Army Exercise VUKUHLOME IV, 2025 is an operational exercise in the South African National Defence where the South African Army demonstrates its ability for combat readiness through different scenarios[b]

More...

VonSmallhausen:
Beautiful work. Is it my imagination or is something changing in our approach to this conflict?
This is an approach i have always wondered why we are not pursuing. To sustain this volume of intensity, ISWAP must be maintaining a huge logistic supply chain, just the volume of bullets and other logistics they expend in their numerous attacks on our bases suggests an elaborate supply and funding arrangement. We need to hit those supply lines more deliberately, both on air and land.
In fact, we should extend our efforts to tracking their finances and move on their financiers.

Wonderful news and kudos to our boys.

Same here; the NA should do more of Night raids/ambush because these terrorist do alot of movement and attacks in early and late dusk times.
I couldn't post all the gory images from the ambush, but I must say kudos to the NA squard/CJTF who carried out the deadly attack, hope we see more of this.

#NNSBS

DaddyGoo:
General CG Musa (RTD) and Air Marshal SK Aneke need to read this.

Well written and can be a beginning guide for the NAF

Anyone remember this ?, when Russian delegates where in the country;
[/b]Russia Pledges Military Support, Weapons, Expertise to Boost Nigeria’s Counter-terrorism Operations[b]

Russia Pledges Military Support, Weapons, Expertise to Boost Nigeria’s Counter-terrorism Operations

The Russian Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening military cooperation with Nigeria, offering advanced weaponry, operational assistance, and strategic counterterrorism expertise to bolster Nigeria’s ongoing fight against insurgency.

The pledge was delivered on Monday by Lieutenant General Andrei Averianov, Special Representative of Russian President Vladimir Putin and the Russian Minister of Defence, during a courtesy visit to Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, at the Defence Headquarters in Abuja.

According to a statement by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Brigadier General Tukur Gusau, the visit marks a significant milestone in Nigeria-Russia defence relations.

Lt Gen Averianov described Nigeria as a strategic ally and regional powerhouse, noting that Russia has closely monitored Nigeria’s counterinsurgency campaigns and stands ready to provide comprehensive military assistance. He cited Russia’s experience in combatting asymmetric threats across operations involving 39 adversary nations as a foundation for the offer.

“Russia is willing to share new counterterrorism techniques developed during its operations, while also providing Nigeria with a full range of required weaponry,” Averianov said, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration against terrorism.

He also acknowledged the evolving nature of global threats—from conventional warfare to terrorism perpetrated by groups such as Boko Haram and Al-Qaeda—and reaffirmed Russia’s desire to help secure the future for generations in Nigeria and beyond.

General Musa welcomed the delegation on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and expressed gratitude for Russia’s commitment to support. He stressed the need for expanded bilateral cooperation in special operations training, intelligence sharing, equipment maintenance, and logistics support.

[/b]Highlighting the challenges faced by the Nigerian Armed Forces, Musa noted that several Russian-made military platforms currently in use were unserviceable due to a lack of spare parts. He appealed for urgent assistance in deploying Russian technicians for in-country repairs or arrangements to return the equipment to Russia for servicing[b]

The CDS also emphasized the need for increased training exchanges, including sending Nigerian officers to Russia and inviting Russian instructors to Nigeria, particularly in specialized fields like amphibious operations and the use of fast-attack craft.

He concluded by commending the Russian delegation for delivering equipment and dispatching experts to oversee testing, describing the gesture as a fulfillment of Russia’s strategic partnership promise to Nigeria.

The high-level engagement signals deepening military relations between the two countries as Nigeria continues to grapple with insurgency threats across its northern regions.

DaddyGoo:
The Russia Ukraine war is a perfect explanation for this.

Little or no ability to conduct PDM either at home or in Russia because of sanctions.

Flowing from above, 3rd country PDM will definitely be fantastically expensive.

Remember also that countries eg India with the S300/400 have had to adapt/change plans because of this.

Indonesia has also done same for heavyweight fighters, switching to a mix of Rafale and F15EX due to the current impossibility of maintaining their SU27/30 fleet as we are experiencing with the Mi35s

Well said mate but African/Asian milititaries who rely on Russia/Chineese hardware should learn from Algeria.
Algeria is a special case among Russian-equipment users because it is not just a buyer; it has built a deep, decades-long sustainment ecosystem around Soviet/Russian aviation. That is why its air force has not collapsed under sanctions pressure. Here is how Algeria specifically keeps its aircraft flying.

1. Algeria Built In-Country Aircraft MRO Long Before Sanctions
Algeria anticipated supply risks years before 2022 and invested heavily in domestic Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capability.
What this means in practice
Algeria can perform:
Depot-level maintenance (not just routine servicing)
Engine overhauls
Avionics repair
Airframe life-extension.
Russia is mainly needed for major upgrades and certain proprietary components, not daily operations.

2. Algeria Negotiated Technology Transfer, Not Just Purchases Unlike many African buyers, Algeria insisted on:
Technical documentation
Maintenance manuals
Local technician training
Hands-on experience during induction
Algerian technicians were trained in Russia and at home for decades.
So today:
Algeria does not rely on Russian technicians being physically present
Russian support is now advisory and indirect, not hands-on
This is a huge difference from countries that only bought aircraft without industrial depth.

3. Large Pre-Sanctions Spare Parts Stockpiles
Algeria planned conservatively:
It stockpiled years’ worth of consumables and critical spares
It bought spares in bulk when oil revenues were high
It deliberately avoided “just-in-time” logistics
For aircraft engines especially:
Algeria holds multiple spare engines per fleet
Engines are rotated, overhauled locally, and returned to service
This allows sustained flight operations even if new Russian shipments slow down.

4. Third-Country & “Non-Western” Supply Channels
While Algeria avoids public sanctions violations, in reality it uses alternative supply paths:
How this works;
Spare parts and sub-components arrive via:
Friendly states that do not enforce Western sanctions. Commercial intermediaries
Re-export hubs (Middle East, Central Asia, parts of Asia). Some parts are classified as dual-use, not strictly military, Because Algeria itself is not sanctioned, enforcement pressure is weaker.
This does not require direct Algeria-Russia transactions every time.

5. Cannibalization & Fleet Management (Quiet but Effective).
Algeria operates large fleets, which allows:
Cannibalization of damaged or grounded airframes, Rotation of aircraft In-between.


6. Russia Still Supports Algeria — Just Differently
despite sanctions.
Russia still provides:
Technical advice
Design authority approval
Upgrade planning.
Often done:
Via defense attachés
Through private or semi-civilian contractors
Via non-sanctioned subsidiaries
This support is less visible but still real.

7. Why Aircraft Like the Su-30MKA Are Easier to Sustain, The Su-30MKA (Algeria’s backbone fighter) was: Customized specifically for Algeria
Designed with maintainability in mind
Built on a mature Su-27 platform with massive global experience.
It does not depend on Western electronics or supply chains, unlike many modern fighters.
This makes sanctions less lethal to readiness.

8. The Trade-Off Algeria Accepts
Algeria’s system works — but with limits:
-What works well
-Day-to-day flying
-Training
-Air policing
-Regional deterrence
What suffers major African/Asian Airforce avionics modernization, Are access to next-generation sensors, Long-term upgrades beyond current standards.
So Algeria can maintain, but modernization is at a slower rate.



SUMMARY; Algeria survives Russian sanctions in aviation because:
It planned decades ahead.
It built real domestic MRO capability.
It stockpiled spares aggressively.
It uses non-Western supply channels.
Russian aircraft are inherently easier to sustain without OEM hand-holding.
Countries that only bought Russian aircraft without building industry are struggling.

Nigeria defence ministry should learn from them honestly.

[/b]TROOPS AMBUSH BHT LOGISTICS CONVOY, NEUTRALISE SCORES IN BORNO COMMUNITIES[b]

Troops of the Nigerian Army operating under Operation HADIN KAI have decisively disrupted a major Boko Haram/ISWAP terrorist logistics movement, neutralising scores of fighters during a well-executed ambush in Sojiri and Kayamla communities, Borno State.

The operation followed credible intelligence on the movement of over 100 Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs) converging in the area to launch coordinated attacks on local communities and ferry supplies to their strongholds. Acting on this intelligence, troops, working in close synergy with the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) and local vigilantes, swiftly mobilised to intercept the terrorists. Contact was made at about 1200 hours as the terrorists advanced.

The troops immediately engaged the enemy in a fierce and sustained firefight. During the encounter, the terrorists attempted a rear-flanking attack on the troops, which was effectively thwarted as troops responded with superior firepower, dominating the engagement.

Subsequent aggressive exploitation deep into the forest confirmed the neutralisation of 21 terrorists, with several others believed to have escaped with gunshot wounds. Follow-on operations are ongoing to ascertain additional enemy casualties and recover more items.
Items recovered include:
Several bicycles, Assorted food items, Drugs and medical supplies, Detergents, Clothing materials, Bicycle tyres
Torchlights and other sundry logistics items
as well as Assorted weapons of different calibres and ammunition

Troops remain in high morale, with fighting efficiency assessed as strong and unwavering. This operation underscores the continued effectiveness of intelligence-driven, joint security efforts in degrading terrorist networks and disrupting their sustainment capabilities.

#CION
#SOF
#N.E/N.W.

More...

NAF GRADUATES ELITE SPECIAL FORCES TO STRENGTHEN COUNTER-INSURGENCY AND COUNTER-TERRORISM OPERATIONS[b][/b]

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has graduated personnel of Special Forces Course 12/2025, further strengthening its pool of mission-ready forces for sustained counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations across the country. The graduation reflects the Command Philosophy of the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, which prioritises standardised training, professionalism, and mission-focused capability development. Of the 250 NAF Regiment personnel nominated and screened in September 2025, 150 commenced the rigorous programme, with 136 elite personnel, comprising 1 officer and 135 airmen/airwomen, successfully completing the demanding 13-week course to earn their place among the NAF Panthers.

The course was delivered through a comprehensively upgraded curriculum tailored to contemporary operational realities and divided into six mission-specific phases. Training covered support weapons handling, Air-to-Ground Integration, French language proficiency, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal/Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (EOD/CIED). Speaking on the training, the CAS emphasised that “our focus is to build Special Forces who are resilient, adaptable, and fully prepared for the demands of modern counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations,” noting that mission readiness remains central to the Nigerian Air Force’s operational effectiveness.

In his remarks, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, commended the graduates for their discipline, endurance, and professional conduct throughout the course. He specifically praised the Commandant, Regiment Training Centre Annex Bauchi, Group Captain US Agha, and his instructors for their dedication and effective delivery of a demanding, mission-oriented programme. The AOC stated that “the successful outcome of Special Forces Course 12/2025 underscores our commitment to standardised training and mission-focused capability development, ensuring our Special Forces remain dependable and decisive in complex operational environments.” He further acknowledged the guidance and sustained support of the CAS, reaffirming the resolve of the Special Operations Command to continue producing elite forces in support of national security objectives.

#NigerianAirForce #NAFSpecialForces #NAFPanthers #MissionReadyForce #CounterInsurgency #CounterTerrorism #NationalSecurity

DaddyGoo:
Air Force Maintenance Group can teach them how.

Not like the airframes are completely new in Nigeria!

Even the airforce is not left out, Look at all the Mi-35m fleet that are all grounded.

[/b]TROOPS OF OPERATION HADIN KAI THWART TERRORIST INFILTRATION ATTEMPT FROM MANDARA MOUNTAINS INTO BITTA[b]

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK) have decisively thwarted an early-morning attempt by terrorists operating from the Mandara Mountains to infiltrate Bitta, neutralising several insurgents and dealing a significant blow to their operational capability.

The incident occurred on the early hours of 18 December 2025, when troops, supported by advanced surveillance systems, detected the movement of terrorists advancing towards the area. Exercising tactical restraint and professionalism, the troops allowed the terrorists to move into an effective engagement range before unleashing coordinated defensive fire. The engagement resulted in the neutralisation of several insurgents, including a key terrorist commander and his cameraman.

As the surviving terrorists attempted to withdraw, follow-on precision strikes were conducted by the Air Component of OPHK, further decimating the retreating elements and disrupting their escape routes.

Following the engagement, troops conducted a thorough exploitation of the area, leading to the recovery of significant terrorist weapons, equipment and logistics. Items recovered include a camcorder, AK-47 rifles, bandoliers, handheld radios, 11 AK-47 magazines loaded with rounds, seven mobile phones, PKT machine guns, several belts of PKT and GPMG linked ammunition, as well as motorcycles and bicycles.

Further exploitation revealed multiple blood trails and shallow graves, indicative of additional casualties sustained by the terrorists during the ground engagement and subsequent air strikes.

Troops’ morale and fighting efficiency remain high as ongoing operations continue to deny terrorists freedom of action and ensure the safety and security of communities within the Area of Responsibility.

Troops of Operation HADIN KAI remain resolute in their commitment to decisively defeat all terrorist elements and restore lasting peace and stability across the North-East region.

SANI UBA
Lieutenant Colonel
Media Information Officer
Joint Task Force (North East)
Operation HADIN KAI
18 December 2025

bidexiii:
[/b]Air Force personnel confirm emergency landing to fix technical fault[b]
Source: @Zagazola

Watch video below:

Air Force personnel confirm emergency landing to fix technical fault

One of the eleven Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel detained in Burkina Faso has confirmed that their aircraft made an emergency landing in the West African country due to a technical fault, which has since… pic.twitter.com/O2Q3gXuCV0

— Zagazola (@ZagazOlaMakama) December 18, 2025

Nigeria’s steadfast commitment to dialogue and regional cooperation continues to yield positive outcomes.
Following my engagement in Burkina Faso, the pilots and crew of NAF C-130 (913) have been formally cleared to depart and are currently en route Portugal via Accra.

DaddyGoo:
This is what Army Aviation should be equipped to do.

A dozen Mi17 or Super Puma would be a good starting fleet for aero mobile assault operations

Getting these capabilities is not the problem, Can the NA maintain such capability is my fear.

bidexiii:
[/b]EXCLUSIVE: Burkina Faso releases 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel after diplomatic engagement[b]



Burkina Faso has released 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members nine days after their detention, following high-level diplomatic intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The release came shortly after a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, concluded engagements with the Burkinabè authorities in Ouagadougou, including talks with President Ibrahim Traoré.

The delegation comprised senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and the NAF Headquarters, and was mandated to pursue a peaceful and constructive resolution to the matter through dialogue.

A senior official familiar with the mission told Zagazola Makama that the engagement was aimed at fostering mutual understanding, de-escalating tensions and securing the release of the detained NAF personnel, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation and adherence to international aviation and military protocols.

“The mission point to Nigeria’s preference for diplomacy and neighbourly engagement. It was a confidence-building visit designed to strengthen trust and reaffirm shared responsibilities in addressing the complex security challenges confronting the Sahel,” the source said.

According to the official, the Nigerian delegation also conveyed Abuja’s enduring commitment to regional security collaboration, dialogue and respect for international norms, noting the long-standing history of cooperation between Nigeria, Burkina Faso and other members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Nigeria and Burkina Faso have traditionally collaborated in security training, intelligence sharing and regional stabilisation efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism across West Africa.

Officials expressed optimism that the successful resolution of the incident would deepen bilateral understanding and reinforce collective efforts to promote peace, stability and security in the region.

[/b]Air Force personnel confirm emergency landing to fix technical fault[b]
Source: @Zagazola

Watch video below:

Air Force personnel confirm emergency landing to fix technical fault

One of the eleven Nigerian Air Force (NAF) personnel detained in Burkina Faso has confirmed that their aircraft made an emergency landing in the West African country due to a technical fault, which has since… pic.twitter.com/O2Q3gXuCV0

— Zagazola (@ZagazOlaMakama) December 18, 2025

[/b]EXCLUSIVE: Burkina Faso releases 11 Nigerian Air Force personnel after diplomatic engagement[b]



Burkina Faso has released 11 Nigerian Air Force (NAF) pilots and crew members nine days after their detention, following high-level diplomatic intervention by the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The release came shortly after a Nigerian delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, concluded engagements with the Burkinabè authorities in Ouagadougou, including talks with President Ibrahim Traoré.

The delegation comprised senior officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Defence and the NAF Headquarters, and was mandated to pursue a peaceful and constructive resolution to the matter through dialogue.

A senior official familiar with the mission told Zagazola Makama that the engagement was aimed at fostering mutual understanding, de-escalating tensions and securing the release of the detained NAF personnel, while reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to regional cooperation and adherence to international aviation and military protocols.

“The mission point to Nigeria’s preference for diplomacy and neighbourly engagement. It was a confidence-building visit designed to strengthen trust and reaffirm shared responsibilities in addressing the complex security challenges confronting the Sahel,” the source said.

According to the official, the Nigerian delegation also conveyed Abuja’s enduring commitment to regional security collaboration, dialogue and respect for international norms, noting the long-standing history of cooperation between Nigeria, Burkina Faso and other members of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES).

Nigeria and Burkina Faso have traditionally collaborated in security training, intelligence sharing and regional stabilisation efforts, particularly in the fight against terrorism and violent extremism across West Africa.

Officials expressed optimism that the successful resolution of the incident would deepen bilateral understanding and reinforce collective efforts to promote peace, stability and security in the region.

[/b]Army recovers weapons, locates slain soldier in Taraba ambush aftermath[b]



Troops of the Nigerian Army deployed in Taraba State have recovered weapons and the corpse of a slain soldier during ongoing search-and-rescue (SAR) operations following an ambush on their patrol team in Takum Local Government Area.

Zagazola gathered that the operation followed an earlier attack on troops at Tyojande village, Takum LGA, which resulted in casualties, the Army said in an operational update on Tuesday.

According to the sources , troops acting on intelligence provided by locals in Kufai Amadu on Dec. 17 advanced to the general area of Tyojande where the ambush occurred.

During the operation, troops made contact with armed elements near Ange village, about two kilometres from the location where the corpse of a killed soldier was later found.

The sources said the troops’ superior firepower forced the assailants to abandon their positions and flee into thick vegetation, using cattle as cover before escaping towards nearby mountainous terrain. A hot pursuit ensued, leading to the recovery of two AK-47 rifles, one additional item, and three empty magazines concealed at different locations within the area.

The troops subsequently advanced on foot through Tyojande and Yumga villages, and later projected force to Ande and Nbaume communities, all within Kufai Amadu axis of Takum LGA, where no further contact was made.

The source confirmed the recovery of the corpse of Late Lance Corporal in the Tyojande general area. Search-and-rescue operations, the Army added, are ongoing to locate one soldier still missing.

The Nigerian Army reiterated its commitment to sustaining operations to account for all personnel and to deny criminal elements freedom of action in the area.

@DHQNigeria
@HQNigerianArmy