By Bavoriat Clara
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, on 19 February 2026 conducted an operational visit to the 303 Composite Group (CG) of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Ilorin, Kwara State, to assess the unit’s readiness ahead of the flag-off of Operation Savannah Shield.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the dual engagements were said to reinforce the Armed Forces of Nigeria’s unified resolve to intensify counterterrorism and internal security operations in Kwara State and across the country.
During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke inspected operational platforms, maintenance facilities and mission support infrastructure at the 303 CG. He noted that airpower provides the NAF with speed, reach and precision, stressing that when intelligently applied, it becomes a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations.
The CAS commended personnel of the unit for their professionalism and combat preparedness, emphasizing that operational readiness must be sustained continuously. He assured the unit of continued support from Headquarters in the areas of logistics, training and welfare to further enhance operational efficiency and responsiveness.
Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen during a durbar, Air Marshal Aneke highlighted the evolving nature of asymmetric threats and the need for adaptive airpower strategies. He urged personnel to strengthen inter-agency cooperation, maintain high morale and uphold discipline, noting that vigilance and professionalism remain critical to mission success.
The visit culminated in the flag-off ceremony of Operation Savannah Shield led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede. The CDS described the mission as intelligence-led and structured to combine kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to achieve sustainable security outcomes.
The ceremony also featured the decoration of the Operations Commander with the operational insignia and the formal handover of the operation flag to the Theatre Commander, symbolizing the commencement of coordinated joint task force operations.
In his keynote address, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the Armed Forces for their steadfast commitment to restoring peace. He expressed confidence that residents of the state would experience improved security, pledging sustained collaboration between the state government and security agencies to consolidate the gains of the operation.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment, Air Marshal Aneke stated that the operation reflects the Armed Forces’ collective determination to deny criminal elements any sanctuary. He added that the NAF will continue to project smart airpower through sustained air presence, intelligence-driven missions and rapid response capabilities to protect lives, secure communities and uphold Nigeria’s sovereignty.
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