Air Chief Orders Smarter, Harder Air Strikes to Secure Nigeria

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has issued an urgent directive to all Air Component Commanders to intensify precision air operations aimed at neutralizing insurgents, terrorists, and criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability. This order was given during a high-level strategic meeting convened at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters in Abuja with commanders from all operational theatres.

Air Marshal Aneke emphasized that the evolving security landscape demands agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare. He called for the delivery of smarter, harder, and more decisive air strikes, stressing that every mission must embody professionalism, purpose, and patriotism. The Air Chief further urged a synchronized approach combining air, land, and maritime operations in collaboration with sister services to ensure unified and effective counterterrorism efforts.

Reinforcing the importance of operational excellence, the CAS highlighted the deployment of special strike teams and surveillance drones to provide 24-hour monitoring across critical regions including the North-East, North-West, and Niger Delta. He noted that every sortie needs to make a tangible impact on the ground, with no safe haven left for terrorists, bandits, or criminal gangs.

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In addition to operational directives, Air Marshal Aneke reassured personnel of his unwavering commitment to their welfare, continued training, and access to advanced technology. He underscored that a motivated, equipped, and highly trained force is vital to achieving air superiority and national stability.

The Chief of Air Staff reiterated the Nigerian Air Force’s dedication to supporting the government’s vision of peace and security while maintaining strict adherence to international standards of conduct and accountability. He concluded by emphasizing that Nigeria’s airspace and territorial integrity are non-negotiable and that the NAF will relentlessly pursue the protection of its citizens and restoration of national stability.

These strategic directives mark a crucial shift in the Nigerian Air Force’s operational posture, signaling a new era of total air dominance under the leadership of Air Marshal Aneke as the country intensifies the fight against terrorism and criminality.

This bold stance from the Air Chief is expected to enhance the effectiveness of Nigeria’s broader security efforts and reassure citizens of the government’s resolve to secure the nation against all threats ​.