•Similar drones used by ISIS in Libya
By Senator Iroegbu and Gift Wada
A concerning trend has emerged in Nigeria’s North East, as Boko Haram and ISWAP terrorists have reportedly begun deploying drones to attack military installations.
The recent drone attack on a Forward Operating Base in Wajiroko, Damboa Local Government Area of Borno State, has intensified calls for a comprehensive national policy on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The December 24 incident, which injured six soldiers, underscores the evolving tactics of insurgent groups.
While the military swiftly launched a clearance operation in the Timbuktu Triangle—eliminating over 70 terrorists and dismantling their hideouts—security experts warn that the use of drones marks a dangerous escalation in terrorist capabilities.
Credible sources told Global Sentinel that UAVs have been used to target military locations in Damboa and Konduga, suggesting a significant shift in terrorist tactics. Investigations further revealed that the drones used in these attacks resemble those employed by ISIS in Libya.
According to intelligence sources, “The use of drones by Boko Haram and ISWAP raises concerns about the evolving nature of terrorism in the region and the potential for more sophisticated attacks.”
Military response
When contacted, military officials acknowledged the development but declined to provide further details on specific incidents or response strategies.
Reacting to the report, the Director of Defence Media Operations (DMO), Maj-Gen. Edward Buba, stated:
“The same terrorists who used these amateur drones have since been eliminated in their hideout within the Timbuktu Triangle in Abadam LGA of Borno State.”
Buba, in a press statement, explained that troops of Operation Hadin Kai conducted a clearance operation targeting the terrorist stronghold in the Timbuktu Triangle.
“The operation, which commenced on January 16, involved multiple engagements with terrorists, resulting in the elimination of over 70 combatants, including three key commanders: Talha (Terrorist Special Forces Commander), Mallam Umar (Terrorist Operations Commander), and Abu Yazeed (Terrorist Brigade Commander),” he stated.
Buba added that during the operation, terrorists deployed Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs), suicide bombers, and explosive-laden vehicles to resist the troops.
“Troops, already familiar with these tactics, successfully thwarted their attempts, including shooting down the amateur drones used by the terrorists,” he emphasized.
Call for a national UAV policy
Speaking to Global Sentinel, security experts expressed deep concerns over the development, urging the Nigerian government to adopt a comprehensive national policy on UAV usage.
Dr. Kabir Adamu, Managing Director of Beacon Consulting, described the use of drones as a troubling trend that could extend beyond military targets to civilians.
“We need a unified and coordinated policy on UAVs, including security measures to counter their offensive use,” Adamu stated.
“While an outright ban is impractical, the government must establish regulations and invest in counter-drone technologies to mitigate potential threats.”
Former DSS Director-General Mike Ejiofor, however, sought to reassure Nigerians, arguing that the terrorists’ drones were rudimentary and did not pose a long-term threat.
“The military has dismantled their hideouts and neutralized key commanders. This is not a cause for alarm but a reminder to remain vigilant and confident in our armed forces,” Ejiofor noted.
Implications for national security
Security analysts warn that the use of drones by terrorist groups has significant implications for Nigeria’s counter-insurgency efforts.
“This development underscores the need for enhanced vigilance and adaptability in our counter-terrorism strategies,” said a regional security analyst who spoke on condition of anonymity.
The use of drones by terrorist organizations is not unprecedented. Groups such as Hezbollah and ISIS have employed UAVs in various conflicts, signaling an evolution in asymmetric warfare.
Experts argue that as the conflict in North East Nigeria continues to evolve, international cooperation and technological advancements will be crucial in countering emerging threats.
Urgent need for action
As Nigeria grapples with evolving terrorist tactics, experts stress the need for swift policy action. Dr. Adamu urged policymakers to prioritize UAV regulation, incorporating security measures while allowing for legitimate civilian use.
“With the right policies and technologies in place, we can prevent future misuse while harnessing UAVs for beneficial purposes,” he added.
The latest attack highlights the evolving nature of terrorist threats and reinforces the need for Nigeria to adapt its security strategies to emerging challenges.