The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar has directed Air Component Commanders of the various operational theatres in the country to sustain air assault on terrorists, Bandits and other enclaves of criminal elements as well as illegal refinery sites/illegal bunkering and sites

Director of NAF Public Relations and Information, Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet who made this known in statement said the CAS gave the directive at a meeting he summoned on Tuesday warning that no effort should be spared in hitting the terrorists hard.

It reads, “On the heels of significant successes recently recorded in various theaters of operations across the country, the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar has issued a directive to Air Component Commanders, urging them to intensify their efforts in ongoing operations.

‘He made this call while addressing all Air Component Commanders during a virtual meeting held on 26 August 2024.

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“In commending the Commanders for their outstanding performance, the CAS highlighted the critical role they have played in ensuring the safety and security of the nation.

“He noted that their dedication and tactical efforts have led to a series of successful missions, eliminating key terrorist leaders, disrupting activities of oil thieves and pipeline vandals, and safeguarding key national assets.

“The Service, and indeed the entire nation, are proud of your achievements.

“Your relentless pursuit of excellence and commitment to duty have not gone unnoticed, and the recent operational successes are a testament to your leadership and the professionalism of the men and women under your command.

“We must, however, continue to hit them hard until they succumb to our superior might.”

While acknowledging the successes made so far, the CAS emphasized that the challenges are far from over and called on the commanders to maintain the momentum.

He urged them to remain vigilant and to continue leveraging intelligence, precision strikes, and collaborative efforts with sister services to neutralize remaining threats.

“We must not rest on our laurels” he said.

“The security of our nation depends on our continued resolve and unwavering commitment. I charge you to intensify your efforts and push forward with even greater determination.

“The Nigerian Air Force will continue to provide all necessary support to ensure the success of our missions.”

The CAS also reassured the Commanders that the NAF leadership remains fully committed to their welfare and the provision of needed resources and equipment to enhance operational capabilities.

He expressed confidence in their ability to deliver on their mandate, stressing that the nation’s security and peace are paramount.

“Recent air strikes targeting terrorists in Zamfara, Katsina, and Kaduna, as well as oil thieves in Rivers and Imo States, have earned commendation from the CAS and other well-meaning Nigerians.

“While these efforts are commendable, the Service remains committed to allocating even more resources across all theatres to restore peace across Nigeria, ensuring that citizens can pursue their lawful activities without fear for their lives or property.”