The Nigerian Air Force says it has strengthened its operational presence in the North West as part of joint efforts to prevent terrorist, bandit and kidnapping groups from threatening vulnerable communities.
Chief of the Air Staff Sunday Kelvin Aneke said the service would continue using intelligence, surveillance and air power to support troops on the ground.
The reinforced deployment includes increased air activity in Sokoto State under Operation Fansan Yamma.
Aneke said the security environment required faster intelligence gathering, responsive air support and closer coordination between air and surface forces.
He said the objective was to sustain pressure on armed groups, restrict their freedom of movement and create opportunities for ground forces to dominate affected areas.
The Air Force said the deployment was designed to improve surveillance and rapid response in terrain where criminal groups frequently rely on mobility and concealment.
Director of Public Relations and Information Ehimen Ejodame said the approach reflected the service’s emphasis on intelligence led operations, innovation and joint force integration.
The NAF said air platforms could extend the reach of security forces by locating, tracking and disrupting hostile groups that might otherwise avoid ground patrols.
The service also stressed that operations would be conducted with attention to civilian safety.
The announcement followed recent Air Force strikes against suspected terrorist positions in Borno State under Operation Hadin Kai.
Military authorities said those strikes killed several fighters, although casualty figures from battlefield assessments have not been independently verified.
The Air Force said it would continue supporting other security agencies while maintaining readiness to respond to emerging threats across the North West.
