The Nigerian military has sought to allay concerns regarding recent drone attacks targeting its troops in the North East, believed to be conducted by suspected Boko Haram insurgents.
Major General Edward Buba, the Director of Defence Media Operations, informed journalists in Abuja on Friday that the drones employed by these terrorist groups lack military-grade specifications.
He asserted that, as a result, they do not pose a significant threat in the ongoing counter-terrorism efforts.
Buba, who provided updates on a recent airstrike incident in Sokoto State, clarified that the deployment of drones in warfare is not a new phenomenon. He elaborated that drones vary in classification and capabilities.
“We are engaged in a battle against terrorists and insurgents across the nation.
“When we discuss drones, it is important to note that these are not professional devices; they are not military-grade drones.
“These are merely toys that have been modified with a few components and employed inappropriately.
“They lack effectiveness, but we are taking measures to address this issue,” he stated.
Buba also reiterated the Federal Government’s stance that there are no foreign military bases situated anywhere in Nigeria. He dismissed the circulating claims about a supposed French base as mischievous and emphasised that Nigeria would not serve as a base for proximity warfare.
“I recently heard a statement from one of the African leaders regarding this matter.
“That is simply a distraction from him, rather than focusing on the issues within his own country,” he remarked.