By Nkechi Eze
In a decisive move to sharpen Nigeria’s air power response to insecurity, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, DFS, on Wednesday, November 5, 2025, convened a high-level strategic meeting with Air Component Commanders from all operational theatres across the country at the NAF Headquarters, Abuja.
The meeting, which signalled a renewed phase in the Nigerian Air Force’s operational strategy, was aimed at intensifying precision air operations, enhancing inter-service collaboration, and delivering smarter, harder, and more decisive firepower against insurgents, terrorists, and other criminal elements undermining national peace and stability.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strategic session marked a critical step in recalibrating the NAF’s operational posture under the new leadership. It provided a platform for the commanders to harmonize strategies and realign operational priorities in line with the Chief of the Air Staff’s vision of a more agile, intelligence-driven, and technology-enabled Air Force.
Addressing the commanders, Air Marshal Aneke charged them to demonstrate renewed energy, strategic focus, and professionalism in leading their various theatres of operation. He underscored that the evolving security environment demands innovation, coordination, and precision in every aspect of NAF’s combat operations.
“The days ahead demand agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare. We must fly smarter and strike harder, not only to neutralize threats but to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians. Every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism,” the CAS declared.
Air Marshal Aneke stressed that the complex nature of emerging threats across different regions requires a unified, joint approach integrating air, land, and maritime capabilities. “Our operations must be intelligence-led, coordinated, and focused. We will continue to work closely with the sister services and other security agencies to ensure a united front in the fight against terrorism and criminality,” he affirmed.
Reiterating his commitment to the welfare, capacity development, and operational readiness of personnel, the CAS assured the commanders that his administration will prioritize innovation, technology, and continuous training to enhance mission effectiveness. “Every airman and airwoman has a role to play in achieving our collective vision. I will ensure you are equipped, trained, and motivated to deliver results,” he pledged.
Air Marshal Aneke also reaffirmed that the Nigerian Air Force remains a disciplined, professional, and accountable institution committed to the government’s vision of peace and stability. He emphasized that while the Force will continue to apply decisive force against those who threaten national security, such actions will always be guided by humanity, professionalism, and adherence to international standards. “We will apply decisive force against those who threaten our nation, with discipline, humanity, and professionalism. The Nigerian people, government, and international partners expect nothing less from us,” he stated.
The Air Chief further charged his commanders to translate strategy into decisive operational outcomes, sustain the tempo of ongoing missions, and ensure that every sortie yields tangible impact in the theatres. “The safety and confidence of our citizens are our mission success indicators. Nigeria is counting on us, and we will not fail,” he said.
The strategic meeting concluded with a renewed commitment by the Air Component Commanders to intensify air interdiction, surveillance, and support operations across all theatres. It also reaffirmed the NAF’s determination to strengthen inter-agency cooperation, reassure Nigerians of its unwavering resolve to protect the nation, and reinforce international confidence in Nigeria’s counterterrorism and stability operations.
