NAF Intensifies Intelligence-Led Air Strikes, Orders Zero Complacency in Bauchi Operations

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified intelligence-led air operations across conflict-prone areas, with the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, ordering sustained operational pressure on terrorist and bandit elements while warning against complacency within the ranks.

The directive was issued on Tuesday during a strategic visit to Bauchi State, where the CAS addressed personnel at the Headquarters Special Operations Command (HQ SOC) and co-located units during a durbar.

A statement signed by the Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF Headquarters, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the visit formed part of efforts to reinforce operational readiness and align strategic directives with field execution.

Air Marshal Aneke reiterated that ongoing air operations must remain intelligence-driven, precise, and result-oriented to ensure measurable impact on security threats across the country.

“This Command remains central to safeguarding our sovereignty and delivering decisive airpower in support of ongoing operations. We will keep our eyes open so our citizens can sleep with theirs closed,” he said.

He further charged commanders and personnel to ensure that every mission delivers clear operational value, stressing that efficiency and accountability were critical to the success of current counterterrorism efforts.

“Every mission must count. Our operations must be intelligence-led and outcome-focused to decisively defeat all threats to national security,” the CAS stated.

Aneke commended the resilience of personnel in the command, noting that their sustained efforts had contributed to recent operational gains and improved response to emerging security challenges across various theatres.

As part of the visit, the CAS inspected operational platforms, equipment, and critical infrastructure within the command, assessing readiness levels and identifying areas requiring improvement.

He emphasised that the effectiveness of air operations depends largely on the condition of equipment and support systems, adding that maintenance and preparedness remain non-negotiable.

In line with efforts to strengthen civil-military relations, the Air Chief also visited the Emir of Bauchi, Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, where he underscored the importance of community cooperation in sustaining security operations.

“Winning the trust of the people remains essential to achieving sustainable security outcomes,” he said.

The Emir, in his response, commended the Nigerian Air Force for its sustained efforts in protecting lives and property, noting that its operations had contributed significantly to peace and stability in Bauchi State and beyond.

Aneke also disclosed that the Air Force is accelerating efforts to enhance its operational capability through the acquisition of modern platforms and advanced intelligence systems, alongside continuous training of personnel.

He warned that complacency would not be tolerated under his leadership, insisting that commanders must demonstrate discipline, courage, and accountability at all times.

“Under my leadership, complacency will not be tolerated. Commanders must lead with courage, discipline, and accountability at all times,” he said.

Reaffirming his people-centred leadership approach, the CAS assured personnel of improved welfare conditions, including upgraded accommodation and expanded housing facilities across NAF bases.

He added that investments in equipment, communication systems, and professional development would continue to be prioritised to enhance mission effectiveness.

The Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, assured the CAS of full compliance with directives, noting that the command remained committed to sustaining high operational tempo in ongoing missions. He said the unit was fully aligned with the leadership’s vision for decisive airpower delivery.