Sunday Aneke, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), has declared that airpower remains a decisive force multiplier in Nigeria’s counterterrorism campaign, as the Armed Forces intensify operations to tackle insecurity in Kwara State and other parts of the country.
Aneke made the remarks during an operational visit to the 303 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force in Ilorin, where he assessed the unit’s readiness ahead of the official launch of Operation Savannah Shield.
In a statement issued by Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, Headquarters, Nigerian Air Force, the visit formed part of broader engagements that included the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs, underscoring what military authorities described as a unified effort to strengthen counterterrorism and internal security operations nationwide.
While inspecting operational aircraft, maintenance facilities, and mission support infrastructure at the Ilorin base, Aneke emphasised that the Nigerian Air Force’s speed, reach, and precision capabilities provide a critical advantage in modern asymmetric warfare.
“When intelligently applied, airpower becomes a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations,” Aneke said, commending personnel for their professionalism and operational readiness.
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He stressed the importance of sustained preparedness, urging commanders and technical crews to ensure continuous operational effectiveness.
“Our platforms must remain serviceable, our intelligence actionable, and our personnel mission-focused at all times,” he said, assuring the unit of continued support from Air Force Headquarters in logistics, training, and welfare.
Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen during a durbar session, the CAS highlighted the evolving nature of asymmetric threats and urged personnel to adopt adaptive airpower strategies.
He also called for stronger inter-agency collaboration, high morale, and strict discipline, noting that vigilance and professionalism are essential to mission success.
The formal launch of Operation Savannah Shield was led by Chief of Defence Staff Olufemi Oluyede, who outlined the strategic framework of the mission.
According to him, the operation is intelligence-driven and designed to integrate both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to achieve lasting security outcomes.
He explained that, beyond combat operations, the mission would include stabilisation measures aimed at consolidating gains and preventing the resurgence of criminal groups.
The ceremony featured the decoration of the Operations Commander with operational insignia and the formal handover of the operational flag to the Theatre Commander.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State, who delivered the keynote address, commended the Armed Forces for their continued efforts to restore peace and security.
He expressed confidence that residents would feel safer following the launch of the operation and pledged continued collaboration between the state government and security agencies.
Reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment, Aneke said criminal elements would be denied safe haven.
“We will dominate the airspace, provide persistent surveillance, and deliver precise air support wherever required,” he said.
He added that the Nigerian Air Force would continue to deploy intelligence-driven operations and rapid response capabilities to protect lives, secure communities, and safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty.
