The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has successfully recovered one of its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that experienced a technical fault during a combat mission. The incident, which occurred on Friday, January 2, 2026, did not disrupt ongoing military operations or result in any casualties.
Swift Response to UAV Incident
According to a statement issued in Abuja by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Director of Public Relations and Information, the UAV lost communication link while on a scheduled task. This mission was part of Operation FASAN YAMMA in support of counter-insurgency efforts. The specific location of the incident was within Sector 3 of the operational theatre.
Ejodame detailed that once the loss of link was confirmed and restoration attempts proved unsuccessful, the NAF immediately activated its emergency protocols. These procedures included initiating return-to-base commands and coordinating a response with sister services and relevant authorities. This swift action ensured the platform was contained rapidly.
Recovery and Assessment Underway
The NAF spokesman confirmed that recovery operations commenced immediately after the UAV was contained. Technical teams have since secured the aerial vehicle and begun preliminary evaluations. These assessments are being conducted in strict adherence to the service's standard safety and operational protocols to determine the cause of the technical fault.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame emphasized that the coordinated response was effective. He stated that the situation was managed professionally, preventing any escalation or collateral damage.
No Operational Disruption or Casualties
A key point stressed by the NAF is that the incident had no impact on the broader security efforts across the country. "There was no loss of life, and operations across all theatres continue uninterrupted," Ejodame affirmed.
The Service used the opportunity to reassure the Nigerian public of its unwavering professionalism and sustained operational focus. It reiterated that counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations remain ongoing and unaffected, underscoring its commitment to national security.
This incident highlights the inherent risks in military aviation but also demonstrates the Nigerian Air Force's established procedures for managing technical failures during critical missions.
