NAF Loses Link with UAV During Routine Operation, Coordinates Response, Recovery Effort

Linus Aleke in Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that it temporarily lost communication with one of its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) during a routine operational mission on 2 January 2026 within the Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 3 area.

In a statement on Friday, the NAF explained that efforts to re-establish the communication link were unsuccessful, prompting the activation of established emergency procedures.

As a result, the UAV crew initiated return-to-base protocols, while the Air Force immediately coordinated response and recovery measures in collaboration with sister services and relevant authorities.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the UAV deployment was part of the Service’s sustained commitment to ongoing counter-insurgency operations across the country.

He disclosed that the affected platform had since been secured, with recovery and assessment efforts progressing as planned.

According to him, technical teams have taken control of the UAV and commenced preliminary evaluations in line with approved safety and operational standards.

Air Commodore Ejodame further assured that there was no loss of life or damage to civilian property, adding that operations across all theatres remain unaffected.

“The Nigerian Air Force remains professional and focused in the execution of its constitutional responsibilities. Counter-insurgency operations continue unabated in the interest of national security,” he said.

The NAF reiterated its commitment to maintaining operational effectiveness while upholding safety standards in all air operations.