OPFY Moves to Boost Counter-Terrorism Operations with Drone Deployment – Commander
The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North-West, Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General W.B. Idris, has announced that the command will soon receive its own fleet of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as part of the Nigerian military’s ongoing modernization drive to enhance intelligence gathering, force protection and offensive operations against terrorists in the North-West.
Major General Idris disclosed this on Thursday during an interactive session with defence correspondents in Gusau, Zamfara State, following a comprehensive operational briefing on the activities of Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
Responding to questions on measures being adopted to improve force protection amid the growing use of improvised explosive devices (IEDs) by terrorist groups operating in the North-West and the wider Sahel region, the Theatre Commander said the Armed Forces of Nigeria had significantly expanded investments in drone technology to strengthen surveillance, reconnaissance and operational response across various theatres.
He acknowledged the evolving threat posed by IEDs, stressing that it requires enhanced intelligence capabilities and the deployment of advanced technology to counter emerging security challenges.
According to him, Defence Headquarters and the Service Headquarters have already commenced the acquisition of drones with wider operational coverage to improve situational awareness and support frontline troops.
“The military hierarchy is doing a lot. We have commenced the acquisition of drones, and we are aware that the Chief of Defence Staff, the Chief of Army Staff and the Honourable Minister of Defence are doing everything possible to provide drones with wider operational coverage across the country,” he said.
Major General Idris disclosed that while several operational theatres had already begun receiving unmanned aerial systems, Operation FANSAN YAMMA would deploy its dedicated drone capability immediately after the completion of its operational hangar.
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“As it stands today, Operation FANSAN YAMMA is awaiting the completion of the construction of our hangar before our own drones are deployed for more efficient conduct of operations,” he added.
He explained that the deployment of dedicated UAVs would significantly enhance the command’s ability to monitor expansive forest corridors, track terrorist movements, detect IED threats and provide real-time intelligence to support ground operations.
The commander noted that the North-West presents unique operational challenges due to its vast forests, rugged terrain and remote settlements, many of which are difficult to access through conventional ground patrols, particularly during the rainy season.
According to him, the drones will provide persistent aerial surveillance, improve target acquisition, facilitate battle damage assessments and strengthen coordination between air and ground forces during military operations.
He emphasized that the increasing sophistication of terrorist tactics, including the use of IEDs, ambushes and hit-and-run attacks, demands equally advanced technological responses.
“Our objective is not only to attack terrorists but also to ensure the safety of our personnel during operations. Modern technology is becoming increasingly important in achieving that objective,” the commander said.
Major General Idris commended the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and the Minister of Defence for their continued commitment to equipping frontline troops with modern capabilities.
He said the enhanced surveillance systems, improved intelligence gathering and deployment of advanced equipment had already translated into better operational outcomes by restricting the movement of terrorist groups and increasing the effectiveness of military operations.
The Theatre Commander reaffirmed that Operation FANSAN YAMMA would continue to integrate modern technology with intelligence-led operations, long-range patrols and inter-agency collaboration to dismantle terrorist networks, safeguard communities and protect critical infrastructure across the North-West.
He assured Nigerians that the command remained committed to enhancing force protection, improving operational efficiency and sustaining pressure on terrorist groups until lasting peace and security are restored across the region.
By PRNigeria
