The Nigerian Air Force has intensified its air operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the North-West.

In a statement on Monday, the air force said the increased air presence in Sokoto State was to support ongoing joint security operations.

The move reflects the service’s resolve to sustain pressure on hostile elements, enhance aerial surveillance, and maintain rapid response capabilities within the joint operations area.

According to the NAF spokesperson, the strengthened deployment is critical in tackling asymmetric threats, as terrorists and bandits often exploit difficult terrain, mobility, and concealment to evade ground forces.

”By leveraging the reach, speed, flexibility, and precision of air-power, the NAF is better positioned to locate, disrupt, and degrade hostile elements, deny them freedom of movement, and create opportunities for surface forces to consolidate gains,” said the statement.

NAF boss Sunday Aneke said the NAF would continue to optimise the use of air power to deliver decisive effects in support of joint operations.

Mr Aneke noted that the evolving security environment demanded timely intelligence, responsive air power, and seamless integration with surface forces.

”Our objective is clear: to sustain pressure on criminal elements, deny them freedom of action, and create the conditions for our surface forces to dominate the operational environment.

”We will continue to employ air-power intelligently, professionally, and decisively in synergy with sister services and other security agencies, while maintaining the highest regard for civilian safety,” Mr Aneke said.

He also said the initiative aligned with his command philosophy of building a highly motivated, professional, and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive air power in support of national security objectives.

”It also reinforces the NAF’s focus on intelligence-led operations, innovation, operational readiness, and joint-force integration,” he added.

Mr Aneke reiterated the NAF’s commitment to supporting national efforts to restore peace and stability across the North-West.

He said the service would continue to work closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to protect lives and property, dismantle terrorist and criminal networks, and safeguard communities.

The air force chief urged the public to support ongoing security operations by providing timely, credible information to the appropriate authorities.

(NAN)