Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed Nigerian Air Force commanders to intensify precision air operations with smarter, harder, and intelligence-led strikes against terrorists threatening national security
“Strike Smarter and Harder” – Air Chief Orders Commanders in Renewed Push Against Terrorists
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has directed all Air Component Commanders across operational theatres to intensify precision air operations with “smarter, harder, and more decisive firepower” against terrorists and other non-state actors threatening Nigeria’s peace.
Addressing the commanders during a strategic high-level meeting at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters, Abuja, on Wednesday, Air Marshal Aneke emphasized that the evolving security challenges demand agility, intelligence, and synchronized joint operations.
“We must fly smarter and strike harder — not only to neutralize threats but to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians,” the Air Chief declared.
“Every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism.”
He noted that the changing nature of threats across different theatres requires coordinated air, land, and maritime operations to deliver mission success.
“Our operations must be intelligence-led, coordinated, and focused. We will continue to work closely with sister services and other security agencies to ensure a united front in the fight against terrorism and criminality,” he said.
Air Marshal Aneke charged the commanders to translate strategy into decisive action, sustain operational momentum, and ensure that every sortie has a tangible impact on the ground.
“The safety and confidence of our citizens are our mission success indicators. Nigeria is counting on us — and we will not fail,” he declared.
The Air Chief reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to innovation, technology, and training, assuring personnel that their welfare, capacity development, and operational readiness remain top priorities.
“Every airman and airwoman has a role to play in achieving our collective vision. I will ensure you are equipped, trained, and motivated to deliver results,” he stated.
Aneke further underscored the NAF’s unwavering dedication to the government’s vision of peace and security, pledging that all operations will uphold discipline, humanity, and professionalism.
“We will apply decisive force against those who threaten our nation, with discipline, humanity, and professionalism. The Nigerian people, government, and international partners expect nothing less from us,” he said.
The meeting served as a platform to harmonize strategies, strengthen inter-service cooperation, and reaffirm the Nigerian Air Force’s role as a decisive instrument of national security and a symbol of hope for citizens.
