Benue: NAF Helicopter Makes Precautionary Landing After Anti-Kidnap Operation

The Nigerian Air Force has confirmed that one of its helicopters made a precautionary landing on a farmland in Makurdi, Benue State, while returning from an operation against suspected kidnappers.

The incident occurred on Wednesday at Utur Tse-Igboji community in Bar Council Ward, along the Welfare Quarters–Mopol 13 Ring Road in Makurdi.

According to the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the helicopter had successfully carried out its mission and provided aerial support to troops operating against suspected kidnappers in the state.

Ejodame said in a statement, “The helicopter had successfully provided close air support to surface forces during an operation targeting suspected kidnappers in the Ogbadigbo area of Benue State, near the Enugu-Benue boundary. The operation disrupted the activities of the criminal elements and supported the advance of surface forces.

“Following the successful completion of the mission, the pilot, on return to base, exercised his professional discretion to execute a precautionary landing approximately 10 nautical miles from the airfield.

“This is in accordance with established operational and safety procedures following combat missions. The helicopter has returned to base.”

The Air Force said the operation formed part of its efforts to intensify pressure on criminal groups and strengthen support for troops working to secure affected communities.

“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,” Ejodame said.

“The successful outcome underscores the NAF’s continued resolve to deny criminal elements freedom of action and support efforts to restore safety and security to affected communities.”

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