By Chimezie Godfrey
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has described airpower as a decisive advantage in counterterrorism operations following an operational assessment visit to the 303 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force in Ilorin.
The visit preceded the formal flag-off of Operation Savannah Shield by the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, alongside other Service Chiefs.
Air Marshal Aneke said the Nigerian Air Force’s speed, reach and precision capabilities provide a strategic edge in modern warfare.
“When intelligently applied, airpower becomes a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations,” he said.
During the inspection of aircraft, maintenance facilities and mission support infrastructure, the CAS commended personnel for professionalism and combat readiness.
“Operational readiness is not a one-time achievement; it is a sustained culture. Our platforms must be serviceable, intelligence actionable and personnel mission-focused at all times,” he added.
He assured troops of continued support in logistics, training and welfare to improve operational efficiency.
Addressing officers, airmen and airwomen, the CAS stressed the importance of adapting to asymmetric threats and strengthening inter-agency cooperation.
The operation was later inaugurated by the CDS, who explained that the mission is intelligence-driven and combines kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to achieve lasting security outcomes.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended the Armed Forces, expressing confidence that residents would now “sleep better” following renewed security efforts.
Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the Air Force’s commitment to sustained surveillance and rapid response operations to protect lives and property.