By Nkechi Eze
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) resolve to intensify intelligence-led air operations and sustain decisive pressure on terrorist and bandit elements, declaring zero tolerance for complacency across all operational theatres.
According to an official signed statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the CAS made this known during a strategic operational visit to Bauchi State on April 29, 2026, where he addressed personnel at the Headquarters Special Operations Command (HQ SOC) and co-located units.
Speaking during a durbar with troops, Air Marshal Aneke underscored the importance of aligning strategic intent with operational execution, describing the Special Operations Command as pivotal to safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and delivering decisive airpower.
“This Command remains central to safeguarding our sovereignty and delivering decisive airpower in support of ongoing operations. We will keep our eyes open so our citizens can sleep with theirs closed,” he stated.
Reiterating his command philosophy, the CAS directed that all operations must remain intelligence-driven, precise, and outcome-focused, stressing that every mission must deliver measurable impact in neutralising threats to national security.
“Our operations must be intelligence-led and outcome-focused to decisively defeat all threats to national security,” he said, while commending personnel for their resilience, professionalism, and contributions to recent operational gains and enhanced force protection.
As part of the visit, the CAS conducted a comprehensive inspection of operational equipment, facilities, and critical infrastructure within the Command, aimed at assessing readiness levels and identifying areas requiring improvement. The inspection, he noted, was targeted at enhancing operational efficiency, strengthening response capability, and ensuring that all platforms and systems remain fully serviceable.
He emphasised that sustained operational effectiveness depends on maintaining optimal condition of assets and support infrastructure necessary for current and future missions.
In a move to reinforce civil-military relations, Air Marshal Aneke also paid a courtesy visit to the Emir of Bauchi, His Royal Highness Alhaji (Dr) Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, CFR, where he highlighted the importance of community trust as a critical enabler of operational success.
“Winning the trust of the people remains essential to achieving sustainable security outcomes,” the CAS stated.
In his response, the Emir commended the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained efforts in protecting communities, noting that its commitment has continued to boost public confidence and contribute to peace and stability in Bauchi State and beyond.
The CAS further disclosed that the NAF is accelerating efforts to enhance its operational capabilities through the acquisition and integration of modern platforms and advanced intelligence systems. He added that ongoing training programmes are being intensified to ensure personnel are well-equipped to operate and maintain the new assets effectively.
Highlighting the evolving security landscape, Air Marshal Aneke maintained that operational readiness remains non-negotiable, issuing a firm warning against complacency.
“Under my leadership, complacency will not be tolerated. Commanders must lead with courage, discipline, and accountability at all times,” he declared.
In line with his people-centric leadership approach, the CAS assured personnel of continued improvements in welfare and living conditions, revealing plans to expand residential accommodation and interim housing options across NAF locations, including Bauchi.
He added that investments in equipment, communication systems, and professional development would remain a priority to sustain mission effectiveness.
Also speaking, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, affirmed the Command’s commitment to the CAS’ directives, noting that it remains fully aligned with his vision while sustaining a high operational tempo to deliver decisive airpower outcomes.
