The Nigeria Police Force says expanded aerial surveillance and precision operations have strengthened the country’s counterterrorism response by improving intelligence gathering, supporting ground personnel and disrupting criminal movements.

Police Air Wing Commissioner Martin Nwogoh made the statement during the decoration of promoted officers and the presentation of commendation letters to 14 personnel recognised for bravery and professional service.

Nwogoh said some of the honoured officers safely landed aircraft after sustaining gunshot wounds during hostile encounters. He described their actions as examples of courage, discipline and technical competence.

The Police Air Wing supports surveillance, search and rescue, medical evacuation, logistics, election security and counterinsurgency operations. The force said the recognition also reflected its commitment to professional training and aviation qualifications approved by the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority.