By Gabriel Ameh
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) firm resolve to hunt down insurgents, terrorists, and criminal elements threatening national peace. He made the declaration on Thursday during an operational visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) Sector 2/213 Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Katsina.
This was contained in a statement signed by Ehimen Ejodame Air Commodore Director of Public Relations and Information Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force on 14 November 2025
Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen, the CAS charged personnel to intensify their operations in line with the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to decisively eliminate all threats to the nation’s safety and stability.
Air Marshal Aneke noted that the Federal Government has provided unprecedented support through the acquisition of modern platforms, sophisticated weaponry, and enhanced training. He said these investments place a solemn duty on the NAF to deliver decisive results against increasingly complex security threats posed by violent non-state actors.
He emphasized that the sacrifices of fallen heroes must inspire renewed commitment, urging personnel to remain agile, innovative, and precise in all missions. “We cannot relent for a moment,” he said. “The nation is counting on us to restore peace and reclaim every inch of territory currently challenged by insurgents and criminals.”
Commending troops for their courage and professionalism despite the harsh operational environment, the CAS added:
“Wherever they hide forests, valleys, or remote settlements we will find them. We will strike with precision. Our mission is clear: to hunt them down and protect our people.”
Air Marshal Aneke reiterated that his leadership philosophy remains anchored on decisive warfare and strong personnel welfare. “A force that fights hard must also live well,” he stated. “Under my leadership, your welfare, training, and equipment will match your courage in the field. Your safety and morale are non-negotiable.”
He further assured that the NAF will continue investing in technology-driven capabilities, modern intelligence systems, and advanced operational platforms to maintain dominance in the air and deliver strategic effects on the ground.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, welcomed the CAS and reaffirmed the commitment of troops to achieving his strategic vision for the service. This was followed by an operational brief by the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore C.E. Illoh, who outlined recent gains, current plans, and evolving strategies across the theatre.
The CAS, accompanied by Branch Chiefs and senior officers from Headquarters NAF, inspected key operational and administrative facilities, including Engineering, Logistics, Operations, and recreational and medical areas.
The visit ended with an interactive durbar where personnel raised concerns and received assurances from the CAS. He commended their dedication and urged them to maintain momentum.
“You represent the pride of our nation and the hope of millions who sleep peacefully because you stay awake,” he said. “This fight is about securing our collective future. Every flight must count, supported by actionable intelligence and aligned with the overall campaign plan.”
The visit to Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 2 reaffirms the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment—under Air Marshal Aneke’s leadership to intelligence-driven, precision-led, and decisive operations in safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and protecting its citizens.
