The drone was on a routine operational mission as part of sustained aerial surveillance and counter-insurgency operations when it lost communication/contact with base control. �
The Whistler Newspaper
Efforts to restore the link failed, prompting activation of established emergency procedures by the NAF. �
The Whistler Newspaper
???? NAF Response & Official Confirmation
The Nigerian Air Force officially confirmed the incident on Friday, 2 January 2026 in a statement issued from Abuja:
✔ The UAV experienced a loss of communication link during the mission in Sector 3 of Operation FASAN YAMMA, a key counter-insurgency campaign. �
✔ Emergency return-to-base protocols were initiated but the connection could not be restored. �
✔ Joint response and recovery actions were quickly coordinated with sister services and local authorities. �
✔ The drone has been secured and recovery efforts are underway, with technical teams conducting preliminary assessments. �
✔ No casualties or damage to civilian property have been reported. �
THISDAYLIVE
THISDAYLIVE
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THISDAYLIVE
The Air Force emphasized that operations across all theatres remain uninterrupted and affirmed its continued professionalism and operational focus. �
THISDAYLIVE
???? Cause Under Investigation
At this stage, authorities say the exact cause of the incident — whether technical failure, communication fault, or external factors — is still under investigation by NAF technical teams. �
OYO Gist
???? Context
The CH-4 drone is a surveillance and strike-capable UAV used by the Nigerian Air Force for reconnaissance and counter-terrorism roles. The deployment in Niger State forms part of ongoing efforts to address security challenges across the Northwest and North-Central regions of the country. �