NATIONAL SECURITY: Air Force Recalibrates War Strategy to Confront Terrorists, Bandits

…Tinubu Govt Seeks to Deepen U.S. Security Cooperation
…FG Blames Foreign Lobbyists for Fueling ‘Christian Genocide’ Narrative

By Peter Salami

Nigeria’s war against terrorism and banditry entered a new phase yesterday as the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, ordered a full recalibration of the Nigerian Air Force’s (NAF) war strategy to deliver more decisive precision strikes against insurgents, terrorists, and other violent groups destabilising the country.

The move came as the Federal Government reaffirmed its willingness to partner with the United States and other friendly nations in the global fight against terrorism, while condemning what it described as a foreign-backed campaign to misrepresent Nigeria’s internal security challenges as “religious persecution.”

Air Marshal Aneke, who convened a high-level operational meeting of all Air Component Commanders at the NAF Headquarters in Abuja, directed the immediate intensification of air strikes across all theatres of operation. He said the emerging security landscape demanded “agility, intelligence, and enhanced lethality” from the Force.

“The days ahead demand agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare. We must fly smarter and strike harder, not only to neutralize threats but to protect the lives and properties of Nigerians. Every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism,” the Air Chief charged.

According to the NAF’s Director of Public Relations and Information, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, the strategy meeting was convened to harmonize operational plans, strengthen inter-service cooperation, and ensure that the Air Force remains a decisive instrument of national power.

Ejodame said the new approach will focus on synchronizing air, land, and maritime operations for maximum impact, while ensuring that every sortie delivers measurable results in line with the government’s security objectives.

Reaffirming his commitment to personnel welfare and capacity development, Air Marshal Aneke said the Air Force will invest heavily in innovation, technology, and advanced training. “Every airman and airwoman has a role to play in achieving our collective vision. I will ensure you are equipped, trained, and motivated to deliver results,” he assured.

He also underscored the need for discipline and professionalism in all operations, stating that NAF’s missions would continue to uphold the highest standards of accountability and humanitarian conduct. “We will apply decisive force against those who threaten our nation, with discipline, humanity, and professionalism. The Nigerian people, government, and international partners expect nothing less,” he declared.

Meanwhile, the Federal Government said it remains open to deeper security collaboration with the United States and its allies in dismantling terrorist networks across Nigeria and the wider Sahel.

Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said cooperation between Nigeria and the U.S. has already yielded major dividends, including the delivery of a dozen A-29 Super Tucano aircraft and the ongoing acquisition of AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters for the Nigerian Air Force.

“The government of Nigeria remains open and willing to work closely with the Government of the U.S., other friendly nations and partners, to eliminate terrorism on Nigerian soil,” Idris said, highlighting the recent prosecution of terror suspects, including the alleged mastermind of the 2011 UN Building bombing in Abuja, Khalid Al-Barnawi.

He also cited ongoing trials linked to the 2022 Owo Church massacre and other mass killings across the North Central and North East regions, emphasizing that the Tinubu administration is taking “decisive action” against all forms of terrorism and violent extremism.

Idris noted that Nigeria welcomes dialogue and constructive engagement from its international partners. “We call on our American friends and partners to approach the Nigerian situation with an understanding of its complex realities,” he said. “Nigeria is a vast, multi-ethnic, and multi-religious nation making significant strides in economic reform and in the bolstering of its security architecture.”

However, the minister accused foreign lobbyists, especially in the United States, of driving the narrative of a “Christian genocide” in Nigeria for political and commercial purposes. He said the government’s findings revealed “a correlation between some of these lobbyists and certain domestic influencers who profit from chaos.”

“The Nigerian government has seen a link between some lobbyists operating in the U.S. and the individuals amplifying divisive narratives at home. Many of these actors are directly involved in spreading misinformation about the so-called persecution of Christians,” Idris said.

He maintained that while insecurity remains a pressing concern, there is no evidence that any religious group is being systematically targeted. “Nigeria faces long-standing security challenges that have impacted Christians and Muslims alike. Any narrative suggesting otherwise is based on misinformation or faulty data,” he added.

Highlighting progress under the Tinubu administration, Idris disclosed that security forces have neutralised more than 13,500 terrorists, arrested over 17,000 suspects, and rescued nearly 10,000 abducted persons since May 2023.

The minister insisted that constructive partnerships, not threats or misinformation, remain the most effective path toward peace and stability. “Nigeria welcomes all partners, both domestic and international, to join us in this noble endeavour anchored on trust, collaboration, and mutual respect,” he said.

He concluded by reaffirming President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding citizens’ lives, liberty, and religious freedom. “Nigeria is in capable and steady hands. The President is leading the charge to boost our economy, strengthen our military and intelligence capabilities, and secure lasting peace,” Idris stated.