By Our Reporter
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended troops for rescuing abducted students and teachers following the terrorist attack on Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Borno.
This is contained in a statement by the Director, Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Tuesday in Abuja.
Aneke described the operation by the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI and ground troops as evidence of the effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint military operations against terrorists.
He particularly praised the swift deployment of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets and timely air support, which disrupted the terrorists’ movement and enabled ground forces to rescue the victims.
According to the CAS, the operation demonstrated the critical role of air power in contemporary counter-terrorism campaigns when effectively integrated with ground manoeuvre forces.
He cited the account of the school’s Vice Principal, Mr Paul Namaske, who said the arrival of military aircraft forced the terrorists to scatter, allowing abducted teachers and students to escape.
Aneke commended the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of the troops involved, describing their actions as a reflection of the Armed Forces’ commitment to protecting innocent Nigerians.
The CAS also paid tribute to a soldier of Operation HADIN KAI and a member of the Civilian Joint Task Force who lost their lives during the rescue operation.
He extended condolences to their families, saying their sacrifices would continue to inspire the Armed Forces in defending the nation’s peace, security and territorial integrity.
Aneke reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to working closely with sister services and other security agencies to sustain operations aimed at defeating terrorism and restoring lasting peace across the country. (NAN)
