The Nigerian Air Force has increased its air operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups operating across the North-West, with greater focus on Sokoto State.
The development was disclosed on Monday in Abuja by the NAF Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame.
Ejodame said the increased deployment of air assets to Sokoto was aimed at supporting ongoing joint operations by security agencies working to tackle insecurity in the region.
He explained that the strengthened air presence was necessary because terrorist and bandit groups often take advantage of difficult terrain, their mobility and concealed locations to evade troops operating on the ground.
According to him, the latest operations are designed to improve surveillance and allow security forces to respond more quickly to threats within the Joint Operations Area.
The NAF spokesman said the service would continue using its air capabilities to locate and disrupt criminal elements, limit their movement and create opportunities for ground troops to consolidate their operations.
He said the approach would allow the military to maintain sustained pressure on hostile groups while improving coordination between air and surface forces.
Ejodame also quoted the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, as saying that the NAF would continue to make strategic use of air power in support of joint security operations.
Aneke said the changing security situation required security forces to have access to timely intelligence, effective air support and closer coordination with troops operating on the ground.
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The Chief of the Air Staff said the objective was to maintain pressure on criminal groups, restrict their ability to operate freely and create favourable conditions for ground forces to take control of affected areas.
He said the NAF would work with the Nigerian Army, other military services and security agencies to conduct operations in a professional and coordinated manner.
Aneke also stressed that the protection of civilians would remain a priority during military operations.
He said the increased air operations were consistent with his goal of developing a highly motivated and professionally prepared force capable of responding effectively to national security challenges.
The Chief of the Air Staff added that the initiative would strengthen the NAF’s focus on intelligence-driven operations, innovation, operational preparedness and cooperation among different security agencies.
He reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to supporting efforts to restore peace and stability across the North-West.
Aneke said the service would continue working with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to protect communities, disrupt terrorist and criminal networks and safeguard lives and property.
He also called on residents to support the security agencies by providing reliable and timely information that could assist ongoing operations.
The NAF said the intensified air presence in Sokoto forms part of broader efforts to counter terrorism, banditry and kidnapping and improve security across the region.
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