Air Chief tasks commanders to decisive airstrikes against bandits, terrorists 

The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke has urged commanders to ensure intelligence-driven airstrikes to end terrorism in Nigerian.

He said this on Wednesday during an inspection visit to the Nigerian Air Force (NAF), Special Operations Base, Bauchi.

Aneke said that all operations must remain intelligence-driven and outcome-focused, to ensure that every mission contributes meaningfully to the overall objectives of defeating the terrorists and bandits.

He said the collective focus is to sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives.

According to Aneke, the security environment remains dynamic, demanding that officers remain agile, precise, and relentless in their operations.

“Operational readiness is therefore non-negotiable. Commanders must ensure their units always maintain the highest levels of preparedness. Under my leadership, complacency will not be tolerated.

“Sleep with our two eyes open so that Nigerians can sleep with their two eyes closed, “ he said.

Aneke highlighted that continued commitment and successes recorded were critical to sustaining operational tempo, ensuring that the service remained responsive to all emerging threats.

“An example of our progress is the strengthening of our international defence footprint, ensuring that our collaborative training and counter-terrorism efforts commence on a foundation of mutual trust and tactical alignment,” Aneke said.

He said the NAF’s leadership was intensifying efforts to enhance its capabilities, leveraging engagements with international partners to fast-track the integration of modern platforms and advanced intelligence systems into its operations.

The CAS said the visit reinforces purpose and provides a forum for frank engagement, to ensure that strategic intent at headquarters aligns with operational realities in the units.

He disclosed that President Bola Tinubu has approved N20 billion for residential accommodation for the personnel, and procured modern platforms and other military equipment for the service from America and Italy.

This, he said, are part of efforts to improve personnel welfare, motivate and build their capacities.

While commending Tinubu for the support, Aneke tasked the personnel to be committed, disciplined and display a high sense of professionalism in discharging their duties.

AVM A Idris, Air Commanding Officer, Special Operations Base, Bauchi, described the visit as significant to the operations of the unit, and a source of renewed commitment to the personnel.

He reiterated the NAF readiness to improve welfare of the personnel, and strengthen relations with host communities.

Aneke accompanied by senior  officers of the service held an interactive session with personnel, inspected office/residential accommodation projects and paid a homage to the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Suleiman Adamu.