Nigerian Air Force Ramps Up Aerial Campaigns to Safeguard Oil Facilities in Niger Delta
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has stepped up its aerial operations across the Niger Delta, making significant gains in the ongoing crackdown on crude oil theft and the protection of key national infrastructure. Operating under the 115 Special Operations Group (115 SOG), which leads the Air Component of Operation DELTA SAFE (OPDS), NAF has sustained a high level of air activity aimed at dismantling illegal refining hubs and disrupting the operations of criminal syndicates.
From January to May 2025, the Air Component conducted more than 173 missions and 265 sorties, totaling around 270 flying hours in coordinated missions across major oil-producing states including Rivers, Delta, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Ondo, Edo, and Cross River.
The intensified strikes have led to the destruction of over 100 illegal refining camps, 53 boats, 74 processing tanks, two storage reservoirs, and various transport vehicles. These air operations have dealt a major blow to illicit oil activities along high-risk areas such as Buguma, the Imo River axis, Port Harcourt, Okrika, Egbema/Ohaji, and along the Trans Niger Pipeline route.
The operations support broader national efforts to tackle militancy, curb environmental damage caused by illegal refineries, and protect vital oil and gas assets crucial to Nigeria’s economy.
While continuing efforts to foster strong civil-military relations and support local communities, the NAF maintains that the use of airpower remains a critical tool in breaking the hold of entrenched criminal groups. These ongoing missions reaffirm the Air Force’s commitment to national security and economic resilience by ensuring continued stability in Nigeria’s oil-producing heartland.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame
Director of Public Relations and Information
Nigerian Air Force Headquarters
25 May 2025
