The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has reaffirmed its resolve to sustain decisive and relentless air operations against terrorist elements in the North-East, as the Air Officer Commanding (AOC), Tactical Air Command (TAC), Air Vice Marshal Michael Chukwunonso Ekwueme, declared during an operational visit to NAF Base Maiduguri.
The visit, which took place from 29 January to 1 February 2026, marks the AOC’s maiden operational tour of the frontline base since assuming office on 7 January 2026. It aligns with the strategic directive of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to maintain sustained air operations tempo and enhance effectiveness in ongoing counter-terrorism campaigns.
Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme described NAF Base Maiduguri as a critical hub for airpower projection in support of Operation HADIN KAI, stressing that continuous evaluation of operational readiness is vital to mission success in the North-East.
“Sustained vigilance, adaptability, and relentless pressure on terrorist elements remain essential to restoring lasting peace and stability in the region,” the AOC said.
During the visit, the AOC received comprehensive briefings on ongoing air missions, force posture, and base defence architecture. The Air Component Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore Mohammed Buba Ahmed, presented an overview of current air operations, while the Commander, 105 Composite Group, Group Captain K.O. Nwachukwu, delivered the Base Defence Brief.
The AOC also inspected key operational and support facilities to assess their readiness and capacity to sustain high-tempo combat operations, underscoring the Tactical Air Command’s emphasis on mission sustainability and operational efficiency.
Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen during a durbar, Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme charged personnel to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, discipline, and mission focus, while assuring them of the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to their welfare.
The visit reinforced command presence within the theatre and reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s determination to deliver responsive, sustained, and decisive airpower in support of joint operations aimed at degrading terrorist capabilities and restoring normalcy across the North-East.
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