Nigerian Air Force Intensifies Relentless Air Onslaught On Terrorists Elements – AOC TAC Declares From Frontline Maiduguri

Nigerian Air Force Intensifies Relentless Air Onslaught On Terrorists Elements – AOC TAC Declares From Frontline Maiduguri

The Air Officer Commanding (AOC) Tactical Air Command (TAC), Air Vice Marshal MC Ekwueme, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to sustaining decisive and relentless air operations against terrorist elements during his maiden operational visit to Nigerian Air Force Base Maiduguri, from 29 January to 1 February 2026. The visit aligns with the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke’s drive to maintain sustained air tempo and operational effectiveness in ongoing counter-terrorism efforts. Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme, who assumed office on 7 January 2026, described NAF Base Maiduguri as a critical hub for airpower projection in support of Operation HADIN KAI. He emphasised that continuous assessment of operational readiness is essential to mission success in the North-East, noting that sustained vigilance and adaptability remain key to defeating terrorist threats in the region.

During the visit, the AOC received detailed operational briefs on ongoing air missions, force posture, and base defence architecture. The Air Component Commander, Operation HADIN KAI, Air Commodore Mohammed Buba Ahmed, briefed the AOC on air operations, while the Commander 105 Composite Group, Group Captain KO Nwachukwu, presented the Base Defence Brief. The AOC also inspected key operational and support facilities to assess their readiness and ability to sustain high-tempo combat operations, underscoring the Command’s focus on operational effectiveness and mission sustainability.

Addressing officers, airmen, and airwomen during a durbar, Air Vice Marshal Ekwueme charged personnel to maintain professionalism, discipline, and mission focus, while assuring them of the Nigerian Air Force’s continued commitment to their welfare. The visit reinforced command presence in the theatre and reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s resolve to deliver sustained and responsive airpower in support of joint operations aimed at restoring peace and stability in the North-East.