Military Launches Operation Savannah Shield in Kwara as NAF Pledges Precision Strikes
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, has described airpower as a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations, stressing that its speed, reach and precision remain critical in tackling evolving security threats across Nigeria.
Air Marshal Aneke made the assertion on February 19, 2026, during an operational visit to the 303 Composite Group of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) in Ilorin, where he assessed the unit’s operational readiness ahead of the formal launch of Operation Savannah Shield.
The CAS later joined the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, and other Service Chiefs for the flag-off ceremony of the joint security operation aimed at strengthening counterterrorism and internal security efforts in Kwara State and other parts of the country.
During the inspection of operational aircraft, maintenance facilities and mission support infrastructure, Aneke emphasised the strategic value of airpower in modern asymmetric warfare.
“When intelligently applied, airpower is a decisive force multiplier in counterterrorism operations,” he said.
He commended officers, airmen and airwomen of the 303 Composite Group for their professionalism and combat preparedness, noting that operational readiness must be sustained as a culture rather than viewed as a one-time achievement. The CAS also reaffirmed the commitment of Air Force Headquarters to continuous support in logistics, training and personnel welfare.
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Addressing personnel at a durbar, Aneke highlighted the changing dynamics of asymmetric threats and called for adaptive airpower strategies anchored on discipline, vigilance and stronger inter-agency collaboration.
The visit culminated in the formal launch of Operation Savannah Shield, which the CDS described as intelligence-driven and structured around a comprehensive framework that integrates both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches to achieve lasting security outcomes.
The ceremony featured the decoration of the Operations Commander with the operational insignia and the symbolic handover of the operation flag to the Theatre Commander, marking the commencement of coordinated joint task force operations.
In his keynote address, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq of Kwara State lauded the Armed Forces for their commitment to restoring peace and security. He expressed confidence that residents would “sleep better now,” noting that the new operation had already brought renewed reassurance to vulnerable communities.
Reaffirming the Air Force’s resolve, the CAS declared that criminal elements would be denied safe haven.
“This operation reflects our collective determination to deny criminal elements any sanctuary. We will dominate the airspace, provide persistent surveillance, and deliver precise air support wherever required,” Aneke said.
He added that the Nigerian Air Force would continue to deploy intelligence-driven missions and rapid response capabilities to protect lives, secure communities and uphold Nigeria’s sovereignty.
By PRNigeria
