 has significantly increased its 24-hour aerial operations, targeting terrorist camps and criminal hideouts nationwide in a strengthened campaign to curb insecurity.){kind=link}
The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has significantly increased its 24-hour aerial operations, targeting terrorist camps and criminal hideouts nationwide in a strengthened campaign to curb insecurity.
These intensified missions cover key regions such as the North-East, North-West, North Central, South-East, and South-South zones.
The initiative comes under the directive of Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, aiming to bolster the fight against armed groups threatening national stability.
Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, NAF’s spokesperson, stated in a Wednesday briefing that Air Component Commanders are now mandated to sustain continuous air superiority and apply relentless pressure on insurgent factions.
“Reaffirming its dedication to safeguarding the nation, the Air Force has stepped up nonstop air operations across critical security zones, striking decisive blows against terrorists, insurgents, and criminal elements,” Ejodame said.
He highlighted that this increase follows strategic adjustments and enhanced coordination between air and ground forces, especially under Operation Hadin Kai and other joint military efforts.
Quoting Air Marshal Abubakar, Ejodame added, “Terrorists will find no refuge, day or night. Our surveillance is all-encompassing, and our resolve unwavering. Wherever they seek to hide, we will locate and neutralize them with precision.”
Ejodame referenced the thwarted terrorist assault on New Marte in Borno State on May 24, 2025, as evidence of NAF’s operational readiness and technological edge.
During the incident, fighters from the Islamic State West Africa Province attempted to attack using motorcycles and a vehicle loaded with explosives but were intercepted and eliminated by NAF aircraft utilizing real-time intelligence and surveillance data.
“Our night operations now benefit from advanced night vision technology, allowing precise strikes irrespective of time,” he emphasized.
Subsequent air raids killed over 50 insurgents as they tried to reorganize, delivering a significant blow to their operational strength and morale.
Air Marshal Abubakar assured Nigerians of the Air Force’s unwavering commitment to their protection.
“To all Nigerians, be assured your Air Force remains alert and active. From Kalabalge to Rann, Damboa to New Marte, we dominate the skies. As long as we maintain this air superiority, terrorists will never find peace, day or night,” he concluded.