By Gabriel Ameh
Maiduguri, Nigeria — The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to sustaining high-tempo air operations against insurgents in the North-East.
Aneke gave the assurance during an Easter luncheon with frontline personnel at the NAF Base in Maiduguri on April 6, 2026.
Represented by the Chief of Transformation and Innovation, Air Vice Marshal MS Ibrahim, the CAS commended troops of the Air Component of Operation HADIN KAI for their resilience, professionalism, and dedication in executing precision air strikes and intelligence-led missions.
He noted that the sustained operational pressure by the Air Component has significantly degraded terrorist networks and limited their movement across the theatre, contributing to the broader goal of restoring peace in the region.
The CAS also highlighted ongoing efforts to strengthen operational capacity through the deployment of advanced combat platforms, unmanned aerial systems, and enhanced mission training. He added that strategic partnerships are being reinforced to improve overall combat effectiveness.
Reaffirming commitment to personnel welfare, Aneke assured troops of continued improvements in medical care, accommodation, and general well-being to sustain morale and operational efficiency.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes and urged personnel to remain focused and resolute in the ongoing counter-insurgency campaign. The CAS also appreciated the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, defence authorities, and the Borno State Government in advancing military operations.
In a goodwill message on behalf of Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, the Head of Service, Dr Sadiq Abubakar Mohammed, praised the Nigerian Air Force for its decisive role in weakening insurgent activities and enhancing security across the state and the wider North-East.
He also acknowledged the humanitarian contributions of the NAF, including medical outreach programmes, disaster response initiatives, and logistical support to affected communities.
Earlier, the Air Component Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore MB Ahmed, said sustained precision strikes and Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions have continued to dismantle terrorist supply chains and neutralise key targets.
The Easter engagement, he noted, further boosted troop morale and reinforced the NAF’s resolve to sustain decisive air operations until lasting peace is restored in the region.
