DHQ Collaborates with Agencies to Trace Terrorists’ Drones, Assures Action Soon

The Defence Headquarters (DHQ) has announced that it is working closely with relevant government agencies to investigate and halt the deployment of drones by terrorist groups in the North East, with probes already at an advanced stage.

This disclosure was made by the Director of Defence Media Operations, Major General Michael Onoja, during a press briefing in Abuja on Thursday, where he updated journalists on recent military operations and security developments.

In recent months, insurgents affiliated with Boko Haram, Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Jama’atu Ahlis Sunna Lidda’awati wal-Jihad have escalated their tactics by incorporating sophisticated drone technology in attacks targeting civilians and security forces. This shift has sparked widespread concerns among experts and citizens regarding the sourcing and smuggling of such advanced equipment into the country.

Onoja emphasized that collaborative efforts are underway to pinpoint the origins of these drones and prevent 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 stated.

He further assured that agencies equipped to counter drone threats have been engaged, adding, “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.”

The rise in drone-assisted attacks has been a growing issue since late last year. As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum raised alarms in October 2025 following a Boko Haram drone strike on military positions in Mafa town, warning of potential sabotage and urging the federal government to review Nigeria’s air safety protocols. Zulum’s call came after insurgents used a drone for surveillance and bombardment, highlighting vulnerabilities in border controls and technology imports.

Security analysts have linked the terrorists’ access to drones to porous borders, black market smuggling from neighboring countries, and possible international arms networks. The DHQ’s ongoing investigation aims to disrupt these supply chains and enhance countermeasures, including anti-drone systems for frontline troops.

Addressing other concerns during the briefing, Onoja responded to social media allegations that soldiers at checkpoints in Bauchi State are being forced to remit weekly sums to commanders. He described these as mere claims, stressing the military’s transparency. “If the allegations are found to be true, necessary action will be taken,” he said, urging those with evidence to provide details for proper investigation.

On a positive note, Onoja highlighted the voluntary return of Nigerian refugees from Cameroon as a testament to improved security in affected areas. “The military, in conjunction with the federal government, has tried all within its capacity to ensure the necessary security in those areas,” he noted, attributing this to the success of Operation Hadin Kai.

Under Operation Hadin Kai, troops have maintained momentum in the North East, restricting the movements of terrorist factions and neutralizing threats. Onoja reported that recent operations have denied insurgents freedom of action, leading to surrenders and recoveries of arms.

The federal government’s commitment to tackling emerging security challenges, including technological threats like drones, remains a priority as Nigeria continues its fight against insurgency. Stakeholders are optimistic that the advanced investigations will yield tangible results, bolstering national defence.