By Chimezie Godfrey
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its airpower operations in the North-East as part of ongoing efforts to sustain operational momentum against insurgents operating in the region.
The Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Kelvin Aneke, reaffirmed the service’s resolve to maintain decisive airpower in support of Operation Hadin Kai, aimed at consolidating operational gains and restoring stability across the theatre.
In a statement issued on Thursday by the Director of Public Relations and Information, Nigerian Air Force, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the Chief of Operations, Headquarters NAF, PN Amadi, commenced an operational visit to NAF Base Maiduguri on March 11, 2026, on behalf of the Chief of the Air Staff.
According to the statement, the visit was aimed at reviewing the operational environment and assessing the base’s readiness to sustain high-tempo joint operations.
During the engagement, the Air Component and the 105 Composite Group presented operational and base defence briefings highlighting the base’s preparedness and resilience in executing assigned missions.
Aneke emphasised the Nigerian Air Force’s operational commitment, stating:
“The Nigerian Air Force remains focused on maintaining persistent air presence, delivering precision effects, and providing the critical advantage required for joint forces to sustain operational superiority across the theatre.”
As part of efforts to strengthen joint operational synergy, Amadi also visited the headquarters of the Theatre Command of Operation Hadin Kai, where the Air Force reaffirmed its commitment to close coordination with ground forces.
Aneke added:“Our coordinated air-ground operations continue to shape the battlespace, constrain hostile elements, and reinforce the momentum required to secure lasting peace and stability in the region.”
The operational engagements coincided with recent precision air strikes conducted in the Sambisa general area on March 11, 2026, which destroyed four terrorist gun trucks and several logistics assets.
The mission, the statement said, was executed following credible intelligence and sustained aerial surveillance, significantly disrupting the operational mobility of hostile elements.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, MC Ekwueme, also visited NAF Base Maiduguri to boost troop morale and reaffirm the service’s commitment to operational excellence.
“The NAF will continue to dominate the air domain, protect civilian populations, and support joint forces in consolidating hard-won gains toward lasting national security,” Aneke stated.
