Airpower ‘Key to Breaking Terror Networks’ — CAS

By Zainab Uzomah| Abuja

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has underscored the decisive role of airpower in Nigeria’s counterterrorism campaign during an operational visit to the Nigerian Air Force’s 303 Composite Group in Ilorin.

According to the statement signed by Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, Director of Public Relations and Information, the visit on 19 February preceded the official launch of Operation Savannah Shield, where the Air Chief later joined the Chief of Defence Staff and other Service Chiefs. The dual engagements, he said, reflect a renewed push to strengthen internal security efforts in Kwara State and across Nigeria.

Inspecting aircraft, maintenance facilities and mission-support systems, Air Marshal Aneke noted that airpower offers speed, reach and precision that can decisively shift the balance in counterterrorism operations. He commended personnel for their professionalism but stressed that operational readiness “must be a sustained culture,” adding that intelligence, serviceability and focus must remain constant. He also assured the unit of continued support in logistics, training and welfare.

Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen during a durbar, the Air Chief highlighted the evolving nature of asymmetric threats and called for adaptive strategies, deeper inter-agency coordination and heightened vigilance.

The visit culminated in the flag-off of OperationSavannah Shield, led by the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede. He described the mission as an intelligence-led operation integrating kinetic and non-kinetic efforts to achieve long-term security. The ceremony included the decoration of the Operations Commander and the formal handover of the operation flag to the Theatre Commander.

The Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, welcomed the launch, praising the Armed Forces for their sustained efforts to restore peace. He said residents “will sleep better now” and pledged continued collaboration with security agencies.

Reaffirming the Nigerian Air Force’s role in the mission, Air Marshal Aneke said the operation reflects a shared determination to deny criminal elements any refuge. He added that the service will continue to deliver “smart, precise andpurposeful airpower” to protect lives, support joint forces and defend national sovereignty.