The Nigerian Air Force has reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining intensified air operations against terrorists and criminal elements operating in different parts of the country, as part of ongoing efforts to restore peace and security nationwide.
This assurance was given by the Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, during an Eid-el-Fitr luncheon organised for troops of Operation WHIRL STROKE in Makurdi. The event was held to celebrate the end of the Muslim fasting period and to appreciate the sacrifices of military personnel serving in the operational theatre.
The Air Chief, who was represented at the event by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Edward Gabkwet, praised the troops for their bravery, discipline, and dedication to duty. He said the Nigerian Air Force leadership has profound appreciation for the courage and sacrifices of personnel who continue to risk their lives to protect the country from terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups.
According to him, the Nigerian Air Force remains resolute in prosecuting intelligence-driven air campaigns aimed at weakening and destroying the operational capabilities of terrorists and criminal networks across the country. He explained that recent air operations have recorded significant successes, including the destruction of terrorist hideouts, logistics bases, and movement routes used by criminal elements.
He stressed that the Nigerian Air Force will not relent in its mission to support ground troops through air surveillance, reconnaissance, and precision strikes. He noted that the cooperation between air and ground forces has continued to improve military effectiveness in ongoing operations, particularly in the North Central region where Operation Whirl Stroke is actively engaged in combating armed groups.
The Air Chief also emphasised the importance of civil-military cooperation, stating that the support of local communities remains vital to the success of military operations. He urged residents to continue to provide useful information to security agencies, assuring them that such information would be treated with confidentiality and used strictly for security purposes.
Speaking to the troops during the luncheon, the representative of the Air Chief said the Eid-el-Fitr celebration was not only a time for celebration but also a moment to reflect on sacrifice, service, and national unity. He encouraged the personnel to remain committed, professional, and focused on their mission despite the challenges they face in the field.
He further assured them that the welfare of troops remains a top priority for the Nigerian Air Force, adding that efforts are being made to improve operational equipment, logistics, and living conditions for personnel deployed in various theatres of operation.
Operation Whirl Stroke, which operates mainly in Benue and neighbouring states, was established to address rising insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and communal violence in the region. Over time, the operation has played a major role in supporting ground forces and helping to stabilise affected communities.
Residents in parts of Benue State have expressed hope that the renewed commitment by the Nigerian Air Force will further reduce attacks and improve security, especially for farmers who have often been forced to abandon their farmlands due to insecurity.
Security analysts believe that sustained air operations, combined with ground offensives and community cooperation, could significantly weaken criminal networks and restore relative peace in affected regions. However, they also stress that military action alone may not completely end insecurity, noting that economic development, employment opportunities, and community engagement are also important in addressing the root causes of crime and terrorism.
As the Nigerian Air Force continues its operations, the message from the leadership remains clear: the fight against terrorism and criminality will continue with renewed intensity until peace and security are fully restored across the country.
