The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that one of its helicopters made a precautionary landing on a farmland in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Wednesday. The helicopter, which was returning from an operation conducted in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, landed at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Bar Council Ward. The operation was aimed at providing close air support to ground troops engaged in operations against suspected kidnappers near the Enugu-Benue boundary.
According to the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the operation had successfully disrupted the activities of the suspected criminals and supported the advance of surface forces. The pilot exercised professional discretion and landed the helicopter approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield in accordance with established operational and safety procedures. This decision was made following the successful completion of the mission.
The NAF stated that the helicopter had successfully provided close air support to surface forces during the operation targeting suspected kidnappers. The operation disrupted the activities of the criminal elements and supported the advance of surface forces. The NAF remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements, providing close air support to surface forces, and protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations.
The incident occurred two days after a NAF aircraft crashed in Igbokoda, Ilaje Local Government Area of Ondo State, with 25 passengers and seven crew members on board. The aircraft, an ATR-42 with tail number NGR 931, plunged into a swamp opposite the naval base in the early hours of Monday. Fortunately, the helicopter involved in the Benue incident has since returned to base.
The NAF reaffirmed its commitment to supporting ground forces and conducting coordinated operations aimed at protecting communities and improving security in affected areas. The successful outcome of the operation underscores the NAF's continued resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of action and support efforts to restore safety and security to affected communities.
The precautionary landing was made in accordance with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions. The NAF prioritizes the safety of its personnel and equipment, and the pilot's decision to make a precautionary landing demonstrates this commitment. The helicopter has returned to base, and the NAF continues to operate in support of ground forces.
The NAF's operations in Benue State are part of a broader effort to address insecurity in the region. The service remains dedicated to working with other security agencies to restore peace and stability to affected communities. The incident highlights the risks faced by security personnel in their efforts to protect communities and maintain security.
Key points
- The Nigerian Air Force helicopter made a precautionary landing in Benue State after returning from an operation against suspected kidnappers.
- The operation successfully disrupted the activities of suspected kidnappers and supported the advance of surface forces.
- The NAF remains committed to sustaining pressure on criminal elements and protecting communities through coordinated air and ground operations.
