NAF intensifies Air campaign as CAS orders smarter, more aggressive strikes against terrorists

The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has vowed that the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) will escalate its air operations to dismantle terrorist networks and restore public confidence amid rising security concerns across the country.

During an operational visit to NAF Base Maiduguri on 17 November 2025, the Air Chief declared that the time had come for a stronger, smarter, and more coordinated push against terrorist groups threatening national stability. “We will go all out against them,” he said, assuring Nigerians that the NAF remains fully committed to dominating the airspace and neutralising threats wherever they appear.

Air Marshal Aneke announced that the NAF is deepening collaboration with ground forces, expanding precision-strike missions, and investing heavily in intelligence-led operations designed to deny terrorists the ability to regroup or launch attacks. He added that the intensified campaign seeks to reinforce security across all theatres of operation.

Welcoming the CAS, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command (AOC TAC), Air Vice Marshal Paul Obeya, reaffirmed the readiness of NAF personnel to execute the CAS’ directives. This was followed by a detailed operational briefing from the Air Component Commander of Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore MB Ahmed, who outlined recent strike achievements, surveillance coverage, and plans to push interdiction missions deeper into hostile enclaves.

Addressing frontline airmen, the CAS praised their dedication, describing the personnel of Operation HADIN KAI and the 105 Composite Group as critical to Nigeria’s counter-insurgency success. He noted that recent challenges will not deter the momentum of air operations, which remain central to weakening terrorist capabilities and protecting communities across the region.
“We must stay on the offensive,” Aneke said. “The nation sees your sacrifice and stands firmly behind you.”

Air Marshal Aneke explained that his visit was aimed at assessing on ground realities, interacting with personnel, and addressing factors that influence combat readiness. Reiterating his leadership philosophy of “Welfare for Enhanced Warfare,” he assured troops of improved logistics, enhanced medical systems, strengthened administrative support, and timely operational allowances.

He also revealed that the NAF is adopting a strategic direction rooted in precision targeting, better joint operations, and the smarter use of airpower. “Under my leadership, the NAF will fly smarter and strike harder,” he declared. The CAS further expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support, stating that the Service remains committed to upholding professionalism and operational excellence.

As part of the visit, the Air Chief paid a courtesy call on the Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum. He commended the governor for what he described as the “Borno Model” of community-driven peacebuilding, acknowledging state government support through logistics and land allocations that have strengthened NAF’s presence in Maiduguri. Governor Zulum, in response, praised the NAF and other security agencies for their tireless efforts in safeguarding the state.

Reassuring Nigerians of the Air Force’s determination, Air Marshal Aneke pledged that the NAF will not relent in its mission to protect the country.
“Let every Nigerian know this: your Air Force will not falter, will not hesitate, and will not retreat. We will find the terrorists, neutralise them, rescue our citizens, and honour our fallen heroes by ensuring their sacrifices were not in vain,” he said.