Insecurity: Air Chief Orders Troops To Strike Terrorists Harder

Air Marshal Aneke met Air Component Commanders from all operational theatres at the NAF Headquarters, Abuja Credit: X/@NigAirForce

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has directed air component commanders from ongoing military operations nationwide to increase the strength of their strikes on terrorists.

Aneke made the call when he convened a high-level strategic meeting with the commanders from all operational theatres at the NAF Headquarters, Abuja.

The meeting, held under the new leadership’s directive, focused on intensifying precision air operations and delivering smarter, harder, and more decisive strikes against insurgents, terrorists, and criminal elements undermining Nigeria’s peace and stability.

The engagement, according to a statement by NAF, marked a decisive step in recalibrating its operational posture and strengthening inter-service synergy for enhanced national security outcomes.

Addressing the commanders, the CAS emphasised the importance of “agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare to effectively counter evolving threats across all theatres”.

“We must fly smarter and strike harder; every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism,” he told the senior officers.

Intelligence-Led Operations
He further underscored the need for synchronisation of intelligence-led air, land, and maritime operations.

These, he said, would ensure joint mission success, assuring that the NAF would continue to work closely with sister services and security agencies to achieve unified operational effectiveness.

According to the statement, Aneke, while reaffirming his commitment to personnel welfare, innovation, and continuous training, pledged to equip airmen and airwomen with the tools and skills required for mission success.

He also reiterated that the NAF remains dedicated to supporting the government’s vision of peace and security, “while upholding international standards of conduct, discipline, and accountability”.

“The safety and confidence of our citizens are our mission success indicators. Nigeria is counting on us, and we will not fail,” the air chief added.

The CAS’ order came in the wake of US President Donald Trump’s call on the Federal Government to address what he described as the “mass slaughter” of Christians, designating Nigeria as a Country of Particular Interest (CPC).

Trump had threatened to have American boots on the ground in Nigeria, saying  the US “cannot stand by while such atrocities are happening”.

But the Federal Government, while dismissing the claim, urged the US government to approach Nigeria’s situation with understanding.
-Channels