NAF reinforces airpower support for operation HADIN KAI in Northeast

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) strategic resolve to sustain decisive airpower in support of Operation HADIN KAI, consolidating operational gains and reinforcing stability across the Northeast.

In line with this, the Chief of Operations, Headquarters NAF, Air Vice Marshal PN Amadi, commenced an operational visit to NAF Base Maiduguri from 11 March 2026 to review the operational environment and evaluate the Base’s readiness for high-tempo joint operations.

During the engagement, the Air Component and 105 Composite Group presented comprehensive operational and Base Defence briefings, highlighting strong preparedness and resilience. The CAS emphasised, “the Nigerian Air Force remains focused on maintaining persistent air presence, delivering precision effects, and providing the critical advantage required for joint forces to sustain operational superiority across the theatre.”

Air Vice Marshal Amadi also visited Headquarters Theatre Command, Operation HADIN KAI, reaffirming NAF’s commitment to coordinated air-ground operations. Air Marshal Aneke noted, “our coordinated air-ground operations continue to shape the battlespace, constrain hostile elements, and reinforce the momentum required to secure lasting peace and stability in the region.”

The leadership engagements coincided with precision air operations in the Sambisa general area on 11 March 2026, which destroyed four hostile gun trucks and associated logistics assets. Conducted following credible intelligence and sustained surveillance, the mission disrupted adversary mobility and reinforced intelligence-driven airpower effectiveness.

Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, visited NAF Base Maiduguri, boosting personnel morale and reaffirming commitment to operational excellence.

Air Marshal Aneke concluded, “the NAF will continue to dominate the air domain, protect civilian populations, and support joint forces in consolidating hard-won gains toward lasting national security.”