The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has restated the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) firm commitment to pursuing and neutralising all criminal elements undermining national security, particularly in the Northwest.
During an operational visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) Sector 2 at the 213 Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Katsina, the Air Chief underscored the service’s obligation to execute President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s directive to decisively address emerging and persistent security challenges across the country.
Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the Federal Government’s substantial support in strengthening the NAF through the acquisition of modern platforms, advanced weapon systems, and improved training. He said these investments place a heightened responsibility on the service to deliver results, especially as the security environment continues to evolve with the activities of violent non-state actors.
He reminded personnel of the sacrifices made by fallen airmen and urged them to sustain the resolve and professionalism that define the NAF.
“We cannot relent for a moment. The nation is counting on us to restore peace and reclaim every inch of territory challenged by insurgents and criminals,” he said.
Commending the troops for their courage and operational efficiency despite the demanding nature of the theatre, the CAS reiterated the NAF’s determination to dismantle criminal networks wherever they operate. “We will not rest until every threat to our sovereignty is neutralised. Wherever they hide, whether in forests, valleys, or remote settlements,
our forces will find them and strike with precision. Our mission is clear: to hunt them down and protect our people,” he stated.
Air Marshal Aneke further emphasised that operational success must go hand-in-hand with personnel welfare. He assured airmen and women that their training, equipment, and living conditions would continue to receive priority attention.
“A force that fights hard must also live well. Under my leadership, your welfare, training, and equipment will match your courage in the field. Your safety and morale are non-negotiable,” he added.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, reaffirmed the readiness of troops to execute the CAS’s strategic vision. A detailed operational brief followed, delivered by the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore CE Illoh, who outlined the current campaign plan, recent gains, and ongoing strategies to counter evolving threats in the area of operations.
The CAS also inspected key operational and administrative facilities, including engineering, logistics, medical, sporting, and recreational areas, an exercise that underscored his focus on both mission effectiveness and personnel well-being.
The visit concluded with an interactive durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen. The CAS addressed their concerns, commended their dedication, and urged them to remain steadfast. “You represent the pride of our nation and the hope of millions who sleep in peace because you stay awake. This mission is not merely about defeating enemies; it is about securing our future. Every flight must count,” he said.
The visit to OPFY Sector 2 reinforced the NAF’s commitment to decisive, intelligence-driven, and precision-led operations aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting its citizens.