By Omoniyi David
The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has ordered Nigerian Air Force (NAF), commanders to sustain aggressive operations against bandits and criminal elements, urging smart tactics, initiative, and decisive action nationwide.
Aneke gave the directive during his maiden visit to NAF formations at the Air Force Base, Kaduna, where he addressed officers, airmen, and airwomen at a durbar held in his honour.
He described the visit as an opportunity for direct engagement, exchange of views, and reaffirmation of shared responsibilities aligned with the NAF’s mission and core values.
“My command philosophy is to sustain a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in synergy with surface forces to achieve national security objectives,” Aneke said.
He stressed that personnel welfare and morale were central to operational effectiveness.
“When officers and airmen are motivated, they deliver faster and better with minimal supervision,” he added.
Aneke highlighted the importance of joint operations, urging commanders to collaborate effectively with other branches of the armed forces and security agencies.
He also commended all personnel, from pilots and engineers to medical staff and support teams for their vital roles in the effectiveness of the Air Force.
On the operational front, the CAS warned that Nigeria’s security environment remains complex and unforgiving, and that banditry must be met with relentless pressure, strict discipline, and smart strategies to achieve maximum results.
He charged commanders to maintain the highest level of readiness for personnel, aircraft, and weapon systems.
On welfare, Aneke assured improved conditions of service, including prompt payment of allowances, enhanced medical support for personnel and their families, and provision of essential tools for duty.
“A motivated officer, airman, or airwoman is more alert, disciplined, and effective,” he said.
He added that intelligence-driven operations, proactive safety measures, and efficient use of resources would remain key priorities under his leadership, noting that every role within the NAF is critical to mission success.
