The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reiterated its resolve to step up air operations against criminal groups and terrorists around the nation.
According to reports, during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon honoring the soldiers of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Makurdi, Benue State, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff, made the assurance.
The CAS stated in a statement posted on the force’s official 𝕏 account on Monday that the NAF will not give up on reducing the capabilities of insurgents and other security threats.
Aneke, who was represented at the function by Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, Chief of Civil-Military Relations, conveyed his sincere gratitude for the soldiers serving in the theater of operations.
“I have profound appreciation for the courage, discipline, and sacrifices of personnel deployed within the theater,” he declared.
The Air Chief emphasized that the force is still dedicated to decisive and intelligence-led operations when discussing ongoing military activities.
He declared, “The Nigerian Air Force is unwavering in its pursuit of intelligence-driven air campaigns aimed at undermining the operational capabilities of terrorists and criminal networks.”
Aneke highlighted the NAF’s recent successes, stating that it has maintained a number of coordinated missions in cooperation with other security agencies.
“Precision strikes, close air support, and armed reconnaissance missions in synergy with sister Services and other security agencies” have been carried out by the unit, he said.
He claims that on the battlefield, these actions have produced quantifiable outcomes.
He continued, “Adversary logistics, command structures, and freedom of movement have been severely disrupted by these efforts.”
The professionalism and tenacity of soldiers on the front lines were credited by the CAS with recent operational successes.
He claimed that “the professionalism, determination, and joint operational synergy demonstrated by personnel” were responsible for the accomplishments thus far.
Air Vice Marshal M.C. Ekwueme, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, praised officers and airmen for their commitment to duty during his welcome speech.
He commended their “high morale” and encouraged them to stay focused despite changing security threats.
Ekwueme called for “sustained operational focus and unity of purpose in confronting emerging threats,” emphasizing the value of staff unity.
In a same vein, Wing Commander O.O. Evulobi, the Air Component Commander of Operation WHIRL STROKE, expressed gratitude to the Air Force leadership and other relevant parties for their support.
He said that “the continued support of the Chief of the Air Staff and the collective efforts of all stakeholders in advancing operational success” made the operation’s accomplishments possible.
The Air Chief also emphasized continued efforts to improve the force’s operational capability.
He cited expenditures in state-of-the-art aircraft platforms, cutting-edge training initiatives, and enhanced employee benefits packages.
Officers and airmen were instructed by Aneke to be unwavering in their performance of their duty.
He stated, “In order to achieve lasting peace, stability, and national prosperity, personnel must remain vigilant, disciplined, and resolute.”
