NAF - News Agency Of Nigeria

Tosin Kolade
Jul, Fri, 2025

NAF harps on physical, mental fitness for operational efficiency

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By Sumaila Ogbaje/Kennedy Sheyin

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has reinforced the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to strengthening operational efficiency through enhanced physical and mental fitness management.

Abubakar, represented by the Chief of Administration, AVM Idi Sani, stated this on Thursday at the inaugural edition of the Directorate of Sports and Physical Education Officers’ and Supervisors’ workshop, in Abuja.

The workshop has the theme, “Enhancing Fitness Management Activities to Improve Operational Efficiency in the NAF.”

The CAS emphasised that physical fitness was not just a matter of personal well-being but a critical factor in combat readiness.

According to him, physical readiness is a force multiplier. It sharpens mental alertness, improves endurance, reduces fatigue and enhances performance under pressure.

Quoting renowned military strategist Carl von Clausewitz, he said, “Strength of body is the foundation upon which the will to fight is built.”

The air chief tied the emphasis on fitness to one of the pillars of his Command Philosophy which is “Deliberate Training and Mission-Oriented Force Development”, affirming that deliberate investments in sports and physical training were vital for a mission-ready force.

He also commended NAF athletes and coaches for their dedication, and achievements in sporting competitions, urging them to uphold the highest standards of discipline and sportsmanship.

As part of ongoing reforms, the CAS revealed that several bases, including 013 QRF Minna, 213 FOB Katsina, and NAF Base Enugu, had benefitted from the construction and refurbishment of fitness facilities.

“Over 22 NAF units have also been equipped with modern gym equipment.

“Additionally, efforts are underway to introduce archery clubs across various Commands and Direct Reporting Units to diversify fitness activities and improve participation.

“Physical fitness test for all personnel is an operational imperative.

“True success is not just measured by medals and trophies, but by the integrity, discipline, and values you embody.

“Sports also serve to strengthen civil-military relations,” he said.

Earlier, the Director, Sports and Physical Education, Group Capt. Ademide Adeyeye, said the workshop was a strategic platform for dialogue, experience-sharing, and policy development in the area of fitness and welfare.

He praised the CAS for his visionary leadership and robust support for initiatives that promote personnel health and unity.

According to him, the workshop is part of broader efforts by the NAF leadership to institutionalise a culture of health, agility, and resilience as central pillars of military professionalism.

The event brought together serving and retired senior officers, resource persons, and fitness management specialists for interactive sessions aimed at enhancing the implementation of fitness programmes across the service. (NAN)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

NAF airstrikes eliminate 95 terrorists in Niger

Philip Daniel Yatai
Jul, Wed, 2025

Defence/Security

NAF airstrikes eliminate 95 terrorists in Niger

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Air Component of Operation Fasan Yamma has successfully eliminated no fewer than 95 terrorists in major airstrikes around Ragada and Warari villages in Rijau Local Government Area of Niger.

A credible intelligence source revealed to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) fighter jets intercepted the terrorists on their way from Zamfara on Tuesday at about 1500 hours.

The sources said the bandits were moving from the Zamfara axis through Kebbi state down to Niger.

According to him, enquiry conducted revealed the bandits are moving with one hundred and eight (108) motorcycles armed with sophisticated weapons on their way to Warari and Rijau Local Government Areas of Niger.

“NAF fighter jets intercepted them between Ragada and Warari villages at location general area coordinate 10° 54′ 1.51” N | 5° 25′ 4.96” E in Rijau Local Government Area.

“It has been confirmed that out of the 108 bandits on motorcycles, only 13 of the bandits escaped, but the remaining were neutralised.

“Residents of the villages of Makuku, Warari, and Ragada in Rijau Local Government Area have expressed their happiness and appreciation to the federal government commitment in the ongoing fight against banditry and other criminal elements in the northwest generally,” he said.

The source revealed that intelligence sources in the area had confirmed the information. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

NAF airstrikes hit terrorists’ hideouts on Mandara mountain, kills scores

Lydia Beshel
Jul, Mon, 2025

Defence/Security

NAF airstrikes hit terrorists’ hideouts on Mandara mountain, kills scores

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Terrorists
By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF), under Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK), on Sunday, launched precision air strikes against key terrorist strongholds nestled in the Mandara Mountains, located in Borno.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Mandara mountains are a rugged volcanic mountain range located on the northeastern border of Nigeria and northern Cameroon.

The high-profile targets, Wa Jahode and Loghpere, the NAF said have long served as fortified enclaves for the Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) faction of Boko Haram.

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

Ejodame said the locations, known for their rugged mountain-covered terrain along Nigeria’s border with Cameroon had recently witnessed increased terrorists activity, including reports of logistics build-up and presence of senior JAS Commanders.

He said the strikes followed confirmatory Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance missions revealing clusters of structures fitted with solar panels, black flags, and fortified compounds.

This, according to him, was a clear signs of insurgent resurgence and preparations for coordinated attacks.

“In response, NAF strike aircraft executed a series of well-coordinated air interdictions, targeting and destroying high-value terrorist infrastructure including logistics warehouses, command centres, and defensive shelters.

“Several terrorists were neutralised in the operation, effectively disrupting their supply chain and diminishing their capability to sustain further offensives.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains resolute to sustain ongoing onslaught against terrorists and restore lasting peace to all troubled regions across the Country,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Benson Ezugwu/Sadiya Hamza

Oil production: Rivers Govt. donates helicopter to Air Force

Lydia Beshel
Mar, Thu, 2025

Defence/Security

Oil production: Rivers Govt. donates helicopter to Air Force

428 total views today

Donation

By Desmond Ejibas

Gov. Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers has announced the donation of a helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) as part of the ongoing efforts to increase Nigeria’s crude oil production.

Fubara handed over the refurbished Agusta AW139 helicopter to NAF at its 115 Special Operations Group base in Port Harcourt.

He stated that his administration had fully supported President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to boost crude oil production beyond two million barrels per day before December.

According to him, the state government has also provided significant logistics to security agencies to safeguard lives, property, and critical oil assets in Rivers.

“This Agusta AW139 helicopter, which has been out of use for years, is part of my administration’s commitment to supporting NAF’s operations in Rivers and the Niger Delta region.

“Furthermore, backing President Tinubu’s efforts to increase crude oil production is beneficial to us; if oil production rises, it will generate more revenue for Rivers State,” he said.

Fubara added that, in addition to the helicopter, the state government was currently resurfacing the Air Force base runway to facilitate seamless flight operations.

“We want to be remembered as an administration that paid serious attention to the security of lives and property of our people.

“The support we have provided to our security agencies is a demonstration of our commitment to ensuring a secure Rivers State and Nigeria,” Fubara added.

The governor appealed to the Air Force leadership to deploy the aircraft for surveillance operations, particularly within the state and the wider the Niger Delta region.

Receiving the helicopter, the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Hassan Abubakar, expressed gratitude to Fubara for collaborating with NAF to enhance security in the state and across the country.

He noted that the Air Force had over the years, consistently received logistics support from successive administrations in the state.

“This is evident in the construction of essential infrastructure, including perimeter fencing, residential blocks, and a VIP lounge.

“More recently, Gov. Fubara approved the rehabilitation of the runway and aprons here at the 115 Special Operations Group base,” he stated.

Abubakar emphasised that the helicopter would be deployed for tactical airlift operations, search and rescue missions, and disaster relief efforts.

“With its advanced avionics, high-speed capability, and versatility, the helicopter will enhance our ability to conduct rapid response missions and humanitarian operations.

“The addition of this aircraft to our fleet further underscores our commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of Nigerians,” he added.

Abubakar further disclosed that NAF had initiated comprehensive training programmes for Air Force pilots, engineers, and technicians to ensure the optimal utilisation of its fleet.

He also stated that the Air Force had begun strengthening its maintenance infrastructure to ensure the sustainability and serviceability of its aircrafts.

He reaffirmed that NAF remained committed to collaborating with other security agencies to combat illegal bunkering and all forms of criminal activity.

According to him, through enhanced surveillance, precision air strikes, and joint task force engagements, NAF will continue to protect the nation’s vital resources and maritime domain. (NAN)

Edited by Jane-Frances Oraka

Air chief in Italy to acquire 34 fighter jets, helicopters

Rabi'u Sani Ali
Oct, Mon, 2024

Defence/Security

Air chief in Italy to acquire 34 fighter jets, helicopters

1,027 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, has led a team of Nigerian Air Force (NAF) experts to acquire fighter jets and helicopters from Italy.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Edited by Benson Iziama/Abiemwense Moru