Chief of Air Staff vows intensified campaign against terrorists
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has pledged a more aggressive and intelligence-driven air campaign to combat terrorism and restore public confidence in national security. He said the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) was intensifying operations on all fronts to dominate the battlespace and neutralise threats. “We will go all out against them,” he declared.
Aneke made the commitment on Monday during an operational visit to NAF Base Maiduguri, where he announced enhanced synergy with ground forces, expanded precision-strike operations and broader intelligence-driven missions aimed at denying terrorists any freedom of action.
The Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal Paul Obeya, reaffirmed the readiness of troops to implement the CAS’ directives, including tighter coordination with land forces and improved rapid-response capability. This was followed by a detailed briefing from the Air Component Commander of Operation Hadin Kai, Air Commodore M. B. Ahmed, on current taskings, strike outcomes and expanded interdiction efforts.
Addressing frontline personnel, the CAS praised their resilience, courage and professionalism, describing them as a driving force in the fight against insurgency. He stressed that air operations remain central to degrading terrorist networks and protecting communities across the North-East.
Aneke said his visit was intended to assess real-time conditions and engage with personnel on factors influencing combat effectiveness. He restated his welfare-focused philosophy of “welfare for enhanced warfare,” promising improved logistics, strengthened medical and administrative systems and prioritised operational allowances.
Outlining his strategic vision, the CAS emphasised intelligence-led missions, precision targeting, enhanced joint operations and smarter deployment of airpower. “Under my leadership, the NAF will fly smarter and strike harder,” he assured, while also expressing appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support.
During the visit, Aneke paid a courtesy call on Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, whom he commended for the “Borno Model” of community-based stabilisation and consistent support for NAF operations. The governor, in turn, praised the NAF and other security agencies for their commitment to maintaining security in the state.
Reaffirming the NAF’s commitment to securing Nigeria, Aneke assured citizens that the Service would not relent in pursuing terrorists, rescuing victims and protecting communities. “Your Air Force will not falter, will not hesitate, and will not retreat,” he said.
