The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has directed air component commanders involved in ongoing operations across Nigeria to intensify their strikes against terrorists and other criminal elements.

Aneke issued the directive during a high-level strategic meeting with operational commanders at the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) Headquarters in Abuja.

According to a statement by NAF, the meeting focused on enhancing precision air operations and delivering smarter, harder, and more decisive strikes against insurgents undermining national security.

“The engagement marks a decisive step in recalibrating our operational posture and strengthening inter-service synergy,” the statement said.

Addressing senior officers, Aneke emphasised “agility, precision, and intelligence-driven warfare” as key to defeating evolving threats across all theatres of operation.

“We must fly smarter and strike harder. Every mission must reflect professionalism, purpose, and patriotism,” he said.

The CAS also stressed the importance of synchronising intelligence-led air, land, and maritime operations to ensure mission success.

He reaffirmed his commitment to personnel welfare, innovation, and continuous training, pledging to equip airmen and airwomen with the tools and skills required for success.

Aneke added that the NAF remains committed to supporting the government’s vision of peace and security “while upholding international standards of conduct, discipline, and accountability.”

“The safety and confidence of our citizens are our indicators of mission success. Nigeria is counting on us, and we will not fail,” he said.

The directive followed renewed international scrutiny after former US President Donald Trump called on the Federal Government to address what he described as the “mass slaughter” of Christians, threatening military action if Nigeria failed to act.

The Nigerian Government has since dismissed the claims, urging Washington to approach the country’s security situation with greater understanding.