The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that one of its unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) experienced a loss of communication link during a routine counter-insurgency mission under Operation FASAN YAMMA.

According to a statement NAF Spokesman,  Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame
on Friday, January 2, 2026, the incident occurred within Sector 3 of the operation while the UAV was conducting a scheduled mission in support of ongoing counter-insurgency efforts.

The NAF said all attempts to re-establish communication with the platform were unsuccessful, prompting the crew to initiate standard emergency return-to-base procedures in line with established operational protocols. Following the incident, the Air Force immediately activated coordinated response and recovery measures in collaboration with sister security agencies and relevant authorities.

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“The platform has since been contained, with assessment and recovery activities progressing as planned,” the statement said.

The Air Force added that technical teams have secured the UAV and commenced preliminary evaluations in accordance with safety and operational guidelines.

The NAF emphasized that no lives were lost in the incident and that operations across all theatres remain unaffected.

Reassuring the public, the Air Force said it remains fully committed to professionalism and sustained operational focus, noting that counter-insurgency operations continue without interruption in the interest of national security.