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The Nigerian Air Force has increased its aerial operations across the North-West region, with intensified flights over Sokoto State to support ground forces combating terrorism, banditry and kidnapping, the service announced on Monday.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the air force’s director of public relations, said in a statement that the expanded presence was necessary to counter insurgents who rely on difficult terrain and mobility to avoid detection by ground troops.
“By leveraging the reach, speed, flexibility, and precision of air power, the NAF is better positioned to locate, disrupt, and degrade hostile elements; deny them freedom of movement; and create opportunities for surface forces to consolidate gains,” Ejodame said.
Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the air force would continue to maximise air power to support joint operations and maintain pressure on criminal groups.
“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,” Aneke said.
“We will continue to employ air power intelligently, professionally, and decisively in synergy with sister services and other security agencies, while maintaining the highest regard for civilian safety.”
Aneke said the deployment aligns with his philosophy of building a professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power for national security.
He noted the importance of intelligence-led operations, innovation and integration with other security agencies.
The air chief reaffirmed the air force’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the North-West and called on the public to share credible information with security forces.
