By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering resolve to sustain relentless pressure on terrorist groups, as he hosted personnel at an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon in Maiduguri, Borno State.
The event, held at the NAF Base on Saturday, March 21, 2026, marked the successful completion of the Ramadan fast and served as an occasion to honour the sacrifices of frontline troops engaged in ongoing counter-terrorism operations across the North-East.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, AY Abdullahi, the Air Chief conveyed goodwill and deep appreciation to officers and airmen for their professionalism, resilience and steadfast dedication in a complex and evolving operational environment.
Also represented at the event was the Governor of Borno State, Babagana Umara Zulum, through the Honourable Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Usman Tar.
In his address, Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the dynamic and adaptive nature of contemporary security threats, noting that insurgents continue to deploy desperate tactics in their bid to destabilise the region. He, however, assured personnel that the Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in countering these threats through intensified, intelligence-driven operations.
He pointed to ongoing precision strikes, close air support missions, armed reconnaissance, and interdiction operations, which he said have significantly degraded terrorist capabilities, disrupted their logistics networks, and curtailed their operational freedom within the theatre.
Reaffirming the Service’s long-term strategy, the CAS emphasized the importance of enhanced inter-service collaboration, the acquisition of advanced air platforms and precision-guided capabilities, as well as sustained investment in personnel welfare and capacity development.
He paid tribute to fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in defence of the nation and expressed appreciation to the President and Commander-in-Chief, the Ministers of Defence, the Chief of Defence Staff, and the government and people of Borno State for their continued support.
The well-attended luncheon, which brought together senior military officers, government officials and distinguished guests, underscored the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to restoring lasting peace, stability and hope across the North-East.
