By Bavoriat Clara
The Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Air Training Command (ATC), Air Vice Marshal Esen Paul Efanga, has conducted an operational assessment visit to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Base Kainji as part of ongoing efforts to sustain operational readiness and project decisive air power in support of counter-insurgency operations.
The visit, which took place on 29 January 2026, was aimed at evaluating the operational effectiveness, force protection measures, and mission execution capabilities of units supporting ongoing operations under the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Sector 3. The assessment forms part of the Nigerian Air Force’s routine command-level oversight designed to ensure precision employment of air power and sustained operational excellence across all theatres.
During the visit, Air Vice Marshal Efanga reviewed ongoing air operations at the base and commended both air and ground crews for their high operational tempo, discipline, and professionalism. As part of the assessment, a precision show-of-force mission was conducted, underscoring the Nigerian Air Force’s sustained air superiority and its capacity to deliver timely and decisive effects within its area of responsibility.
The AOC noted that NAF Base Kainji continues to operate from a position of strength, with personnel and platforms maintained at a high state of readiness to respond swiftly to emerging operational demands. He emphasized that the base remains optimally postured to project decisive air power at short notice, reflecting the Nigerian Air Force’s firm control of the operational environment.
Reaffirming the strategic intent of the Service, Air Vice Marshal Efanga stated that the visit aligned with the Chief of the Air Staff’s philosophy of people-centric, capability-driven, and mission-focused air power.
Quoting the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, he said the Nigerian Air Force would “continue to apply air power decisively, relentlessly, and with precision to secure the nation, protect critical assets, and deny hostile elements any freedom of action.”
He assured Nigerians that the Nigerian Air Force remains resolute, fully in control of the airspace, and committed to sustaining operational tempo until lasting peace and security are achieved.
The visit, he added, further boosted the morale of personnel at NAF Base Kainji and reaffirmed the Service’s unwavering resolve to defend the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
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