The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its airpower campaign against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements across the North-West, with a strengthened air presence in Sokoto State to support ongoing joint security operations.
This was disclosed in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
According to the statement, the increased air deployment reflects the Service’s determination to sustain pressure on hostile elements, enhance aerial surveillance, and maintain rapid response capabilities within the Joint Operations Area.
Ejodame noted that the strengthened air presence is particularly critical in tackling asymmetric threats, as terrorists and bandits often exploit difficult terrain, mobility and concealment to evade ground forces.
“By leveraging the reach, speed, flexibility and precision of airpower, the NAF is better positioned to locate, disrupt and degrade hostile elements, deny them freedom of movement and action, and create greater operational opportunities for surface forces to consolidate gains on the ground,” he said.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to optimising the use of airpower to deliver decisive effects in support of joint operations.
“Our objective is clear: to sustain pressure on criminal elements, deny them freedom of action, and create the conditions for our surface forces to dominate the operational environment. We will continue to employ airpower intelligently, professionally and decisively in synergy with sister services and other security agencies, while maintaining the highest regard for civilian safety,” the CAS stated.
The NAF further urged members of the public to continue supporting ongoing security operations by providing timely and credible information to the appropriate authorities.
The Service remains resolute in working closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to protect lives and property, disrupt terrorist and criminal networks, safeguard communities, and contribute to a safer environment for law-abiding citizens across Sokoto State and the wider North-West region.