Gov. Radda Hails NAF for Sustained Air Offensive Against Bandits
Governor Dikko Umar Radda of Katsina State has described Nigerian Air Force (NAF) aircraft as among the most feared weapons by terrorists and bandits operating across the North-West.
Radda made the remarks on Thursday, August 20, 2026, when the Chief of Operations, NAF, Air Vice Marshal PN Amadi, paid an operational visit to the Air Component of Operation Fansan Yamma (OPFY) Sector 2 in Katsina.
The governor commended the NAF for its sustained contribution to counter-insurgency and counter-banditry operations in the region, particularly its ability to project airpower into difficult and inaccessible areas used as hideouts by terrorists and other criminal elements.
He said the effectiveness of NAF air operations had made its aircraft a significant deterrent to criminal groups operating in the North-West.
Radda also assured the NAF of the continued support and cooperation of the Katsina State Government towards ongoing air and ground operations aimed at restoring peace and security across the state.
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Speaking during the visit, Amadi reaffirmed the NAF’s commitment to sustaining intensified air operations against terrorists, bandits and other criminal elements in Katsina and other parts of the North-West.
He stressed the need for closer collaboration among the Armed Forces, other security agencies, government authorities and local communities to achieve lasting peace and security in the region.
The visit also highlighted the strategic priorities of the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, particularly the welfare, operational readiness and effectiveness of personnel deployed in frontline operations.
According to the NAF, the service remains committed to employing decisive airpower to degrade criminal networks, disrupt their operations and deny terrorists and bandits the freedom of action required to sustain their activities.
Amadi was accompanied on the visit by the Chief of Civil-Military Relations, Air Vice Marshal EK Gabkwet.
They were received by the Air Component Commander, OPFY Sector 2, Air Commodore CE Illoh.
The visit formed part of efforts to strengthen operational effectiveness and deepen civil-military cooperation in the ongoing campaign against insecurity in the North-West.
