By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has restated the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to pursue and eliminate insurgents, terrorists, and criminal elements threatening national security, declaring that the Force will “hunt them down” wherever they operate. This reassurance was contained in an official statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information (DOPRI), Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, following the CAS’s operational visit to the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA (OPFY) Sector 2 at the 213 Forward Operating Base (FOB), Katsina.
During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke charged personnel to intensify their efforts in line with the directive of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to decisively eliminate all threats to the safety and security of Nigerians. He noted that the unprecedented support received from the Federal Government, through the acquisition of modern platforms, advanced weaponry, and enhanced training has placed on the Nigerian Air Force a solemn responsibility to deliver results.
The CAS expressed deep concern over the increasingly complex security environment, with ruthless non-state actors inflicting violence and causing tragic losses across communities. He urged personnel to remain agile, innovative, and uncompromisingly precise in their operations, reminding them that the sacrifices of the NAF’s fallen heroes demand unwavering commitment. “We cannot relent for a moment,” he cautioned. “The nation is counting on us to restore peace and reclaim every inch of territory challenged by insurgents and criminals.”
Air Marshal Aneke commended the troops for their courage, precision, and professionalism despite the operational demands of the region. He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force will continue to pursue hostile elements relentlessly, stating: “We will not rest until every threat to our sovereignty is neutralised. Wherever they hide, whether in 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.”
Reaffirming his leadership philosophy anchored on decisive warfare and robust welfare, the CAS insisted that operational effectiveness must be matched by strong support systems for personnel. “A force that fights hard must also live well,” he said. “Under my leadership, your welfare, training, and equipment will match your courage in the field. You are the nation’s shield, and your safety and morale are non-negotiable.” He added that the NAF will continue to invest in modern capabilities, intelligence systems, and technology-driven operations to maintain air superiority and deliver significant effects on the battlefield.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, assured the CAS of the troops’ unwavering readiness to actualise his strategic vision for the service. The CAS subsequently received a detailed operational briefing from the Air Component Commander, Air Commodore C. E. Illoh, who outlined the current campaign plan, recent gains, and evolving strategies to counter emerging threats across the theatre.
Air Marshal Aneke, accompanied by key Branch Chiefs and senior officers from Headquarters NAF, also inspected critical operational and administrative facilities, including the Operations, Engineering, Logistics areas, and medical, sporting, and recreational infrastructures at the base.
The visit ended with an interactive durbar involving officers, airmen, and airwomen, during which the CAS addressed their concerns, commended their dedication, and encouraged them to sustain their resolve. “You represent the pride of our nation and the hope of millions who sleep in peace because you stay awake,” he said. “This fight is bigger than defeating enemies, it is about securing our future. We must fly smarter, strike harder, and protect every Nigerian life with honour.” He further emphasised that every mission must be intelligence-led and must make a meaningful contribution to the overall campaign plan.
