The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Kelvin Aneke, has urged personnel of the Nigerian Air Force to remain relentless in the fight against terrorism, banditry, and other forms of criminal activity across the Northwest Region of the country.
He also charged them to strengthen security measures aimed at protecting lives and property within their host communities.
Aneke gave the directive during a Christmas luncheon with troops of the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 2 and the 213 Forward Operating Base of the Nigerian Air Force in Katsina. The event took place on Thursday at the Sports Complex of the NAF 213 Operating Base, Katsina.
Represented by the Chief of Policy and Plans, Air Vice Marshal Abubakar Abdullahi Yaro, the Air Chief said, “Do not leave any stone unturned in the quest to subdue terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality within the northwest region.”
He explained that sustained operations by the Nigerian Air Force, in collaboration with other security agencies, had produced encouraging outcomes in recent times, including the neutralisation of several terrorists and the disruption of their logistics networks.
“I want to acknowledge that the combined effort of the Nigerian Air Force alongside sister services and other security agencies have yielded positive results with diverse impacts on bandits and terrorists in recent times.
“Many of the terrorists’ fighters neutralized including their logistics while several kidnapped victims have regained their freedom.
“I urge you to replace robust security measures to secure the base and its critical assets as well as the lives and property of the host communities,” he stated.
Air Marshal Aneke also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as unwavering commitment to improving the operational logistics and welfare of the Nigerian Air Force, noting that such support has enhanced the service’s capacity to perform effectively.
He urged the troops to remain focused, disciplined, and determined in sustaining the momentum against criminal elements, assuring them that their sacrifices were recognised.
“Your sacrifices are not taking for granted. The NAF is making tremendous efforts towards addressing your welfare and administrative needs,” he said.
Earlier, the Air Officer Commanding Special Operations Command, Air Vice Marshal Ahmed Idris, in his welcome address, acknowledged the critical role played by Operation Fansan Yamma Sector 2 in the broader anti-banditry campaign across joint operational environments.
He disclosed that the Nigerian Air Force has intensified aerial operations, resulting in the significant neutralisation of terrorists in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, and Katsina states.
According to him, these operations, carried out in close synergy with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, have disrupted terrorist logistics, command structures, and freedom of movement.
He also praised the resilience and professionalism of NAF officers and personnel, noting that they continue to perform their duties with dedication despite the demanding operational environment.
What you should know
Operation Fansan Yamma is a major joint security initiative aimed at tackling banditry, terrorism, and other violent crimes in Nigeria’s Northwest.
The Nigerian Air Force plays a critical role through intelligence-led air strikes, surveillance, and close air support for ground troops. Recent operations have focused on dismantling terrorist camps, cutting supply routes, and supporting rescue missions for kidnapped victims.
Improved logistics, welfare support, and inter-agency cooperation have been identified by military leaders as key factors driving recent gains in the region’s security operations.
