The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has strengthened its operational presence in Sokoto State as part of efforts to intensify air operations against terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities across the North-West.

The move, carried out in collaboration with other security agencies, is aimed at sustaining pressure on hostile elements, enhancing aerial surveillance and improving the capacity for rapid response to emerging threats.

NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the strengthened presence would provide effective air support to ground forces operating within the Joint Operations Area.

According to him, the initiative is particularly important 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 airpower, the NAF is better positioned to support efforts to locate, disrupt and degrade hostile elements, deny them freedom of movement and action, and create greater operational opportunities for surface forces to consolidate gains on the ground,” he said.

The Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, said the NAF would continue to optimise the deployment of airpower to deliver decisive effects in support of ongoing joint operations.

Aneke stressed that the evolving security environment required timely intelligence, responsive airpower and seamless coordination between air and surface forces.

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

He added that the Service would continue to employ airpower professionally and decisively in synergy with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, while prioritising civilian safety.

The NAF said the initiative was consistent with Aneke’s Command Philosophy of building and sustaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering decisive airpower effects in support of national security objectives.

It also reaffirmed the Service’s focus on intelligence-led operations, innovation, operational readiness and joint-force integration in confronting evolving security threats.

The NAF pledged to continue supporting efforts to restore peace and stability across the North-West by working with other security agencies to protect lives and property, disrupt terrorist and criminal networks and safeguard communities.

The Service also urged members of the public to support ongoing operations by providing timely and credible information to relevant authorities.