The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is rolling out a comprehensive counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system to neutralise terrorist drones and protect military personnel and assets.
Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, disclosed this on Wednesday, February 26, during a meeting with senior NAF officials at the force’s headquarters in Abuja.
He highlighted the increasing use of drones by Boko Haram, citing an incident in 2024 where the group deployed UAVs carrying locally made grenades in Damboa, Borno State, to attack ground troops.
“In the Northeast, recent high-profile attacks by Boko Haram on land forces locations suggest a renewed effort for the group to resurge,” he said.
“A significant incident in 2024 was the employment of drones carrying locally fabricated grenades in a kamikaze role by Boko Haram terrorists to attack their own troops in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area.
“This incident underscores the growing efforts of terrorists to proliferate drone attack technology.
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“Therefore, while leveraging advancements in technology and modern warfare to enhance the NAF’s operational effectiveness, it is equally critical to implement a comprehensive and integrated counter-Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) system to safeguard our troops and air assets.”
Abubakar described 2024 as a year of both progress and persistent security challenges, with evolving threats such as insurgency resurgence, drone warfare by non-state actors, and regional geopolitical shifts.
“This is precisely why we conducted a holistic Capabilities Based Assessment (CBA) of the Nigerian Air Force to identify gaps in our core capabilities vis-Ã -vis the rapid transformation in the security landscape and emerging patterns of threat to our nation,” he said.
“The objective is to develop strategies to ensure an agile, resilient, and operationally effective NAF capable of meeting national defence imperatives.”
The NAF chief also emphasised the importance of leadership, strategic thinking, and foresight in addressing the challenges ahead.
“As we deliberate today and tomorrow, I urge each of you to engage boldly and contribute meaningfully. No idea is too small, and no concern is insignificant.
“The strength of our projections for 2025 will be shaped by the depth of our collective insights,” he said.