The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has described airpower as a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations, citing its speed, reach, and precision as critical advantages in modern warfare. He made the remarks during an operational visit to the 303 Composite Group in Ilorin, Kwara State, where he inspected operational platforms, maintenance systems, and mission-support infrastructure ahead of the launch of Operation Savannah Shield.
During the visit, Air Marshal Aneke undertook a comprehensive assessment of the unit’s operational capabilities, engaging with commanders and technical personnel to evaluate readiness levels. He emphasized the importance of maintaining high serviceability standards, robust logistics support, and efficient intelligence coordination to ensure sustained operational success.
The Air Chief commended officers and airmen for their professionalism, dedication, and combat readiness, stressing that operational preparedness must be ingrained as a continuous culture rather than a periodic exercise. He urged personnel to remain vigilant and mission-focused in the face of evolving security challenges.
Aneke further called for deeper inter-agency collaboration, discipline, and adaptive operational strategies to counter asymmetric threats across the country. According to him, synergy among the armed services and other security agencies remains vital to strengthening national security operations and safeguarding communities.
The visit culminated in the formal launch of Operation Savannah Shield, spearheaded by the Chief of Defence Staff, Olufemi Oluyede. The operation is designed to enhance coordinated military efforts aimed at combating terrorism and other security threats in the region.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, lauded the Armed Forces for their sustained commitment to peace and stability. In his remarks, Air Marshal Aneke reaffirmed the determination of the Nigerian Air Force to dominate the nation’s airspace and provide intelligence-driven air support to ground forces in order to secure communities and protect national assets.