NAF intensifies anti-terror operations as CAS visits Katsina forward base

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has restated the Nigerian Air Force’s readiness to pursue terrorists and criminal groups threatening national security. He gave the assurance during an operational visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) Sector 2 at the 213 Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Katsina.

Air Marshal Aneke said the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is clear ,all security threats must be eliminated to protect Nigerians. He noted that with the federal government’s investment in modern aircraft, advanced weapons, and continuous training, the NAF has a greater responsibility to confront insurgency and banditry with precision.

Describing the country’s security landscape as increasingly complex, the CAS urged personnel to remain committed, despite the sacrifices being made by the service. He stressed the need for innovation, speed, and accurate strikes, insisting that the NAF cannot afford to slow down. “We will not relent until every threat is neutralised. Our troops will find and strike these criminals wherever they hide,” he told the officers and airmen.

He also praised the troops for their courage and professionalism in the face of difficult terrain and operational pressures. According to him, every mission must reflect the NAF’s values of discipline, service, and patriotism.

Speaking on welfare, Air Marshal Aneke said his leadership will balance aggressive operations with improved living and working conditions for personnel. He explained that investing in welfare, technology, intelligence systems, and modern capabilities remains central to the NAF’s long term strategy.

Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, assured the CAS that troops are fully committed to his strategic vision. A comprehensive operational briefing was also delivered by the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore CE Illoh, who highlighted recent gains and evolving strategies across the theatre.

During the visit, the CAS inspected key operational and administrative facilities, including engineering, logistics, medical, and recreational areas, before holding an interactive durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen. He encouraged them to remain focused, reminding them that millions of Nigerians depend on their efforts for safety and stability.

The visit underscores the Nigerian Air Force’s resolve to sustain intelligence-driven and precision-led air operations aimed at securing Nigeria’s territorial integrity.