The Defence Headquarters (DHQ), in collaboration with relevant government agencies, has commenced an investigation aimed at tracing and curbing the use of drones by terrorist groups operating in Nigeria, particularly in the North East.

The Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, disclosed this on Wednesday in Abuja while briefing journalists, noting that the investigation had reached an advanced stage.

Rising Concern Over Drone-Enabled Attacks

In recent months, terrorist groups in the North East have increasingly deployed sophisticated drone technology in attacks targeting civilians and security personnel. This development has heightened concerns within security circles over the evolving tactics of insurgents and the apparent ease with which such advanced equipment is being accessed.

Security experts and members of the public have raised questions about the sources of these drones and the channels through which they are allegedly being smuggled into the country.

Responding to these concerns, Onoja said the military was working closely with other federal government agencies to identify the origins of the drones and block their use by non-state actors.

“We have reached an advanced stage in taking measures, in conjunction with other federal government agencies, to trace where these drones are coming from. I believe that in the next couple of days or months, concrete action will emerge on what we intend to do,” he said.

Inter-Agency Efforts Underway

According to the defence spokesman, agencies with the technical capacity to prevent or neutralise drone operations have already been engaged.

“The agencies that have capacity to prevent the use of drones have been contacted and we believe that action will be taken very soon on that,” Onoja added.

Akahi News gathered that the move forms part of broader efforts to modernise counter-terrorism strategies as insurgents increasingly rely on technology to evade conventional security measures.

Allegations of Extortion at Checkpoints

Addressing questions on allegations circulating on social media that soldiers manning checkpoints in Bauchi State were being compelled to remit weekly sums to their commanders, Onoja said such claims remained unproven.

He stressed that the Nigerian military operates transparently and assured that any credible allegations would be thoroughly investigated.

“If the allegations are found to be true, necessary action will be taken,” he said, urging those with specific details to come forward.

Refugees Returning from Cameroon

On the return of Nigerian refugees from Cameroon, Onoja described the development as evidence of improved security in previously volatile areas.

According to him, sustained military operations, in collaboration with the federal government, have helped restore relative stability in affected communities.

“The military, in conjunction with the federal government, has tried all within its capacity to ensure the necessary security in those areas,” he said, adding that the return of refugees was a clear indicator of operational success.

Sustained Operations Against Insurgents

Onoja also provided an update on ongoing counter-insurgency efforts in the North East under the Joint Task Force, Operation Hadin Kai. He said troops have continued to sustain operational momentum by denying Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad (JAS) terrorists freedom of action.

Analysts note that the military’s focus on emerging threats such as drone warfare reflects a growing recognition of the changing nature of insurgency and the need for adaptive, technology-driven responses.

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