The Nigerian Air Force has escalated its around-the-clock air operations, targeting terrorist strongholds and criminal hideouts across the country in a renewed offensive against insecurity.
The operations, which span strategic regions including the North-East, North-West, North Central, South-East, and South-South, are part of a broader security overhaul initiated by the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the NAF spokesperson, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said Air Component Commanders had been directed to maintain continuous aerial dominance and apply sustained pressure on armed groups undermining national peace.
“In a bold reaffirmation of its commitment to national security, the NAF has ramped up round-the-clock air operations across multiple theatres of internal security, delivering crippling blows to terrorists, insurgents, and criminal networks,” Ejodame said. “This renewed operational intensity follows strategic recalibrations and tighter synergy between air and ground components, particularly in Operation Hadin Kai and other joint task force operations nationwide.”
He quoted Air Marshal Abubakar as saying: “Terror will find no sanctuary, day or night. Our eyes are everywhere, and our resolve is unshaken. Wherever they hide, we will find them. And when we do, we will strike with precision.”
Citing the failed terrorist attack on New Marte in Borno State on May 24, 2025, Ejodame said the operation exemplified NAF’s heightened readiness and technological advancement.
A group of Islamic State West Africa Province fighters had attempted to storm the area using motorcycles and a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, but were intercepted and neutralised by NAF aircraft guided by real-time intelligence and surveillance feeds.
“The night offers no more cover for enemies of the state. Our platforms now fly with enhanced night vision capabilities and operate with precision, regardless of the hour,” he added.
In follow-up strikes, more than 50 insurgents were killed as they attempted to regroup, he noted, effectively degrading their offensive capabilities and morale.
Air Marshal Abubakar reassured citizens of the Air Force’s commitment to their safety.
“To every Nigerian, rest assured. Your Air Force is vigilant. We are watching, we are flying, and we are striking. From Kalabalge to Rann, from Damboa to New Marte, we own the skies. And as long as we do, terror will find no rest, day or night,” he said.