The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has intensified its air operations against terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements across the North-West, strengthening its presence in Sokoto State to support ongoing joint security operations.

The Service said the move was aimed at sustaining pressure on hostile groups, enhancing aerial surveillance and ensuring rapid response to emerging security threats while providing air support to ground troops operating within the Joint Operations Area.

According to the NAF, the strengthened air presence in Sokoto is particularly important in countering asymmetric threats, as terrorists and bandits often exploit difficult terrain, mobility and concealment to evade ground forces.

The Service said the increased use of airpower would enhance efforts to locate, disrupt and degrade hostile elements, restrict their movement and create greater operational opportunities for ground forces to consolidate gains.

It also stressed the importance of sustained coordination between air and ground forces in responding to the evolving security challenges across the region.

The initiative, the NAF said, is consistent with the commitment of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to maintaining a highly motivated, professional and mission-ready force capable of delivering effective airpower in collaboration with other military services and security agencies.

The Air Force said it would continue to leverage air operations and joint security efforts to protect lives and property, weaken terrorist and criminal networks, and contribute to restoring lasting peace and stability across the North-West and Nigeria as a whole.

The strengthened air campaign comes amid continuing security challenges in parts of the North-West, where terrorist and bandit groups have continued to exploit remote communities and difficult terrain.