In a bid to intensify efforts to restore peace and stability in Nigeria’s North Central zone, the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed additional air resources as part of Operation Whirl Stroke in the area.
According to the service, this initiative is designed to bolster current military operations, improve aerial surveillance, and increase public trust in regions affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal unrest.
A statement released on Tuesday by the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, indicated that the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, made this announcement following a strategic evaluation visit to the Headquarters Tactical Air Command located in Makurdi, Benue State.
“As part of sustained efforts to restore peace and stability across the North Central region, the Nigerian Air Force has deployed additional air assets under Operation Whirl Stroke.
“This strategic move reinforces the NAF’s commitment to enhancing security, supporting ground operations, and reassuring communities affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal unrest.
“To assess the effectiveness of these expanded efforts, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, conducted a firsthand evaluation of air operations under OPWS.
“The visit included a high-level strategic engagement held today, 17 June 2025, at the Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Makurdi. Present at the meeting were the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; a representative of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira; the Commander of OPWS; and the Maritime and Air Component Commanders, alongside other key stakeholders. Critical updates were provided on the current tempo of joint operations aimed at restoring lasting peace across the region,” the statement reads.
The CAS stated further that the newly deployed air assets have been successfully integrated into ongoing operations, delivering real-time intelligence and precision targeting support.
He stated, “Our aircraft have continued to conduct surveillance, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and precision strike missions with remarkable success.”
Abubakar pointed out that the ongoing deployment corresponds with the Federal Government’s broader objective to stabilize the Middle Belt area.
He emphasized the effects of recent synchronized air and ground operations throughout Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, which have resulted in the dismantling of numerous militia camps, bandit strongholds, and criminal hideaways.
“These outcomes reinforce our unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and supporting national peace-building initiatives.
“As long as peace is threatened, our resolve remains unshaken. The Nigerian Air Force will continue to deliver timely, decisive air support in synergy with sister services, ensuring the protection of lives and properties while advancing our mission of restoring peace to the Middle Belt and beyond,” he said.