The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has confirmed that reports of a helicopter crash in Kaduna on July 1, 2024, are false. According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the incident involved a NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) experiencing a mishap, not a helicopter crash.
Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet, the Director of Public Relations and Information for the NAF, clarified the situation in a statement on Monday. “No helicopter crash occurred,” he stated. “Instead, a NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) experienced a mishap after taking off for a mission near Rumji Village, approximately 15 kilometers from the base.”
Gabkwet emphasized that since the incident involved an unmanned vehicle, there were no casualties either on board or on the ground. He added that a preliminary investigation is underway to determine the cause of the mishap.
He reassured the public that this minor setback will not affect ongoing operations. Gabkwet also criticized the tendency to rush to publish news without verifying facts, calling it detrimental to the principles of developmental journalism, balanced reporting, and fairness.
The NAF spokesman urged media outlets to seek clarification from relevant authorities before reporting on military matters.
 has confirmed that reports of a helicopter crash in Kaduna on July 1, 2024, are false. According to Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, the incident involved a NAF Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) experiencing a mishap, not a helicopter crash.){kind=link}