News

The Remarkable Reactivation of the Dornier DO-228 by the Nigeria Air Force.

Published

2 years ago

January 8, 2025

In a significant stride towards enhancing Nigeria’s aviation capabilities, the Nigeria Air Force (NAF) has successfully reactivated a Dornier DO-228 aircraft that had been grounded for an astonishing 23 years. This notable achievement, communicated by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal (AVM) Olusola Akinboyewa, illustrates the growing technical prowess of the NAF and its commitment to operational readiness.

Originally designated as “5N-MPS” and used by the now-defunct Ministry of Mines, Power and Steel, the aircraft had remained dormant at the DANA facility in Kaduna since 2001. Following a presidential directive urging agencies to transfer grounded aircraft to the NAF for evaluation, the service embraced the challenge of reactivating this valuable asset, which had accumulated only 1,081 flight hours since its inception.

The reactivation process, carried out between June and September 2024, involved meticulous planning and the concerted efforts of a skilled team of five engineering officers and 40 technicians from the NAF 431 Engineering Group in Kaduna. This accomplishment not only underscores the NAF’s growing capacity for indigenous maintenance but also signifies a strategic commitment to achieving self-reliance in aviation capabilities.

Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), expressed commendation for the dedication and expertise demonstrated by the engineering team. According to him, the project’s success reflects the broader objectives of resource optimization, fleet strengthening, and national security enhancement through operational excellence.

Moreover, the successful reactivation of the Dornier DO-228, now re-designated as “NAF-039,” is emblematic of the NAF’s resilience and ingenuity. It reinforces the Air Force’s vital role in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity while paving the way for future advancements in indigenous aircraft maintenance.

As NAF-039 joins the fleet of actively used DO-228 aircraft worldwide, this achievement not only bolsters the tactical airlift capabilities of the NAF but also solidifies its position as a formidable entity in Africa’s aviation sector. The NAF’s commitment to technical innovation and self-reliance heralds a promising future for aviation in Nigeria, positioning the service as a potential leader in indigenous maintenance and operational excellence.

News

Police arrest Bauchi man accused of poisoning motorcyclist and stealing his bike.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Operatives of the Bauchi State Police Command have arrested a 27-year-old man, Isiyaka Badamasi, for allegedly poisoning a commercial motorcyclist in an attempt to steal his motorcycle.

According to a statement issued on Thursday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Nafiu Habib, Badamasi and his alleged accomplice, Ma’aruf Sani, reportedly offered a 21-year-old motorcyclist a sweet containing a harmful substance. The victim, who resides in the Yelwa Tudun area of Bauchi, allegedly became intoxicated after consuming it.

The suspects were said to have attempted to dispossess him of his Bajaj Boxer motorcycle. However, the victim raised an alarm after sensing danger, attracting members of the public who apprehended Badamasi. Sani, both of whose residents are reportedly from Na’ibawa in Kano State, escaped and is currently the subject of a police manhunt.

The victim was taken to Gamuwa Primary Health Care Centre, where he remains on admission and is responding to treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, Sani-Omolori Aliyu, has ordered the transfer of the case to the State Criminal Investigation Department for further investigation. The command also urged residents to remain vigilant and reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property across the state.

Entertainment

Lojay: My uncle told me I would never succeed in music.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

Nigerian singer Lojay has revealed that he faced significant opposition when he decided to pursue a career in music, including doubts from members of his family.

Speaking during a recent livestream with content creator Gilmore, the “Monalisa” hitmaker recalled that one of his wealthy and influential uncles, who is now involved in politics, told him he would never succeed in the music industry.

“I have an uncle who is now in politics. I won’t mention his name, but he is very rich and popular. When I wanted to start music, he told me I would never blow,” Lojay said.

Despite the discouragement, the singer remained committed to his ambition and used the criticism as motivation. He expressed satisfaction that his perseverance had eventually produced positive results.

Lojay also encouraged his fans to remain confident in their dreams and avoid allowing negative opinions to define their ambitions.

News

Benue Police Deny Withdrawal of Mobile Personnel from Ayilamo.

Published

2 days ago

October 15, 2026

Emmanuel Ikechukwu

The Nigeria Police Command in Benue State has dismissed reports alleging that Mobile Police personnel were withdrawn from Ayilamo community in Logo Local Government Area.

In a statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, DSP Orchia Aondogwu, the report was described as unfounded and baseless. He stated that Mobile Police personnel remained deployed in Ayilamo alongside the Divisional Police team and other tactical units.

Aondogwu also said additional military personnel had been deployed to reinforce security in the area, urging the public to disregard the report.

However, the traditional ruler of Ayilamo, Mue Ter, Chief Torkoer Samuel, contradicted the police account. He claimed that the Mobile Police personnel left the community on Wednesday with their equipment and Armoured Personnel Carriers.

The conflicting accounts have raised questions about the current security situation in Ayilamo and the extent of military presence in the community.