By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, DFS, has directed Air Component Commanders across all operational theatres to intensify precision air operations and deliver smarter, harder, and more decisive firepower against insurgents, terrorists, and criminal elements threatening Nigeria’s peace and stability.
The directive came during a high-level strategic meeting held on Wednesday, 5 November 2025, at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja. The session, convened by the Air Chief, brought together operational commanders from across the country in what was described as a crucial step towards recalibrating the NAF’s operational posture under its new leadership.
According to a statement by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the meeting served as a platform to harmonize strategies, strengthen inter-service cooperation, and reaffirm the Air Force’s position as a decisive instrument of national security and a symbol of hope for Nigerians.
Addressing the commanders, Air Marshal Aneke emphasized the need for agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare in confronting evolving threats across various theatres. “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,” he said.
The CAS stressed the importance of synchronized joint operations involving the air, land, and maritime components, adding that intelligence-led coordination remains central to achieving mission success. “We will continue to work closely with sister services and other security agencies to ensure a united front in the fight against terrorism and criminality,” he added.
Reaffirming his commitment to personnel welfare, capacity development, and operational efficiency, Air Marshal Aneke noted that the NAF will continue to prioritize innovation, technology, and training to enhance mission outcomes. “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 assured.
He also reiterated the NAF’s dedication to supporting the Federal Government’s vision of peace and security while upholding international standards of conduct and accountability. “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.
Air Marshal Aneke charged the commanders to translate strategy into decisive field actions, sustain operational momentum, and ensure that every sortie achieves measurable impact. “The safety and confidence of our citizens are our mission success indicators. Nigeria is counting on us, and we will not fail,” he declared.
The strategic engagement, according to the NAF statement, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to personnel welfare, inter-agency collaboration, and national security. It also underscored the Nigerian Air Force’s resolve to maintain air superiority and support the nation’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and criminality.
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