By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) renewed determination to intensify air operations against terrorists and restore public confidence amid rising security concerns.
This is contained in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Tuesday in Abuja.
According to Ejodame, Aneke stated this during his maiden operational visit to the North East Operation Hadin Kai (OPHK) at the NAF Base, Maiduguri.
The CAS said the moment demanded “renewed strength, unity, and decisive action.”
He assured Nigerians that the NAF was stepping up precision strikes, expanding intelligence-driven missions, and deepening joint operations with ground forces.
He reiterated the commitment of the NAF to go all out against the terrorists, adding that airpower remained fully engaged and committed to dominating the battlespace.
Addressing frontline airmen, Aneke commended the resilience, courage, and professionalism of the Air Component and the 105 Composite Group.
He described them as a “driving force” in the counter-insurgency effort and urged them to maintain offensive momentum.
“We must stay on the offensive. The nation sees your sacrifice and stands behind you,” he said.
The CAS said his visit was aimed at assessing frontline conditions and addressing factors affecting combat effectiveness.
He reiterated his welfare philosophy of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare” assuring personnel of strengthened logistics, improved medical and administrative support, and sustained operational allowances.
According to him, the NAF under his leadership would prioritise intelligence-led missions, precision targeting, enhanced jointness, and smarter deployment of airpower.
“The NAF will fly smarter and strike harder,” he said.
During a courtesy visit to Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, Aneke commended the “Borno Model” of community-based stabilisation and urged for the state government’s support to NAF operations through logistics and strategic land allocations.
Zulum, in his response, lauded the NAF and other security agencies for their commitment to securing lives and property in the state.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding, Tactical Air Command, AVM Paul Obeya, reaffirmed the readiness of troops to implement the CAS’ strategic direction, particularly in strengthening coordination with land forces and enhancing rapid-response strike capabilities. (NAN)
