The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) unwavering commitment to defending the nation and neutralising insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements threatening national security.
This was contained in a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, following the CAS’s operational visit to the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) Sector 2/213 Forward Operating Base in Katsina.
During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke urged personnel to intensify efforts in line with the directive of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to decisively eliminate all threats to the safety and security of Nigerians.
He noted that the Federal Government’s unprecedented support—reflected in the acquisition of modern platforms, advanced weaponry, and enhanced training—places a solemn responsibility on the Air Force. According to him, Nigeria’s security environment has grown more complex, with ruthless non-state actors causing grave harm to innocent citizens.
He reminded personnel of the sacrifices of NAF’s fallen heroes, stressing the need for unwavering resolve, speed, and precision. “We cannot relent for a moment,” he said. “Wherever they hide—forests, valleys, or remote villages—our forces will find them, and we will strike with precision. Our mission is clear: to hunt them down and to protect our people.”
Air Marshal Aneke commended the courage, professionalism, and resilience of troops operating in the region despite the challenging terrain. He charged them to sustain the momentum, ensure that every sortie counts, and uphold the NAF’s core values of discipline, service, and patriotism.
Reiterating his leadership philosophy anchored on decisive warfare and robust personnel welfare, the CAS emphasised that the fight against insecurity must align with improved living and working conditions for airmen and women. “A force that fights hard must also live well,” he declared. “Your welfare, training, and equipment will match your courage. You are the nation’s shield, and your morale is non-negotiable.”
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, assured the CAS of the troops’ readiness to execute his strategic vision. The Air Component Commander, Air Commodore C. E. Illoh, also provided an operational brief, highlighting recent gains and strategies to counter emerging threats across the theatre.
The CAS, accompanied by senior officers from Headquarters NAF, toured key operational, engineering, logistics, medical, and recreational facilities within the base. He also held an interactive durbar with officers, airmen, and airwomen, addressing concerns and encouraging them to remain steadfast.
“You represent the pride of our nation and the hope of millions who sleep in peace because you stay awake,” he told them. “This fight is about securing our future. We must fly smarter, strike harder, and protect every Nigerian life with honour.”
The visit underscores the Air Force’s renewed resolve under Air Marshal Aneke’s leadership to pursue decisive, intelligence-driven, and precision-led operations aimed at safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and ensuring the security of all citizens.
