Esther Oseyiomon
The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has declared that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will sustain and intensify decisive air campaigns against insurgent and terrorist groups threatening national security.
Aneke made this known in Abuja on Tuesday during a high-level strategic engagement with Air Component Commanders drawn from various operational theatres across the country.
The meeting, according to a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, was convened to review ongoing operations, identify gaps, and recalibrate air power strategies in line with evolving security realities.
The Air Chief stressed that Nigeria’s current threat environment demands swift, intelligence-driven and coordinated air operations capable of keeping sustained pressure on hostile elements.
He noted that air power remains critical to the success of joint and ground operations, insisting that every mission must be purposeful, precise and aligned with the overarching goal of restoring peace and stability nationwide.
Aneke commended officers and airmen for their professionalism, resilience and the visible gains recorded in degrading insurgent capabilities across multiple fronts.
He said the achievements underscore the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to building a highly motivated, combat-ready and technologically driven force.
However, the Chief of Air Staff warned that security threats remain fluid and unpredictable, requiring constant adaptation and proactive responses.
He called for deeper inter-agency collaboration, improved intelligence fusion, standardised training, rapid logistics support and increased deployment of modern technologies to sustain operational tempo.
Aneke further emphasised that the protection of civilians would remain central to all air operations, in strict adherence to rules of engagement and international best practices.
Reassuring Nigerians of the Air Force’s resolve, he pledged that the Service would continue to refine its strategies and strengthen partnerships until lasting peace and security are achieved across the country.