NAF Recovers Drone After Loss of Control During Routine Mission

By Zainab Uzomah

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) says it has recovered one of its unmanned aerial vehicles after the aircraft lost its communication link during a routine counter-insurgency mission in the North-West.

According to a statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame and releases to the press today, the drone was operating on Thursday within the Area of Responsibility of Operation Fasan Yamma Sector 3 when the link was lost. Attempts to re-establish communication were unsuccessful, prompting the crew to initiate emergency return-to-base procedures.

The Air Force said a coordinated response and recovery effort was immediately activated in collaboration with other security agencies and relevant authorities. The aircraft was “contained”, and technical teams have begun assessments in line with safety and operational protocols.

The NAF confirmed that no lives were lost and that its ongoing counter-insurgency operations across various theatres were not affected by the incident.

It added that it remains committed to maintaining operational professionalism and sustaining pressure on armed groups threatening national security.