Benue Killings: NAF Deploy More Air Assets To Boost Operation Whirl Stroke

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has deployed additional air assets under Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) to restore peace in Benue and other parts of the North Central region.

This followed the recent attack on Yelwata, a community in the Guma local government area, where over 200 citizens were killed. A statement by the NAF spokesman, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, said the strategic move reinforces the NAF’s commitment to enhancing security, supporting ground operations, and reassuring communities affected by banditry, kidnapping, and communal unrest.

He said the Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Bala Abubakar, to assess the effectiveness of these expanded efforts, conducted a firsthand evaluation of air operations under OPWS.

Ejodame said the visit included a high-level strategic engagement held on 17 June 2025, at the Headquarters Tactical Air Command, Makurdi. The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede; a representative of the Chief of the Naval Staff, Rear Admiral Olusegun Ferreira; the Commander of OPWS; and the Maritime and Air Component Commanders, alongside other key stakeholders, were in attendance.

“Critical updates were provided on the current tempo of joint operations to restore lasting peace across the region.”

According to him, the CAS revealed that the newly deployed air assets have been successfully integrated into ongoing operations, delivering real-time intelligence and precision targeting support.

He said, “Our aircraft have continued to conduct surveillance, armed reconnaissance, close air support, and precision strike missions with remarkable success.

Air Marshal Abubakar noted that the current deployment aligns with the Federal Government’s overarching mission to stabilise the Middle Belt region.

He highlighted the impact of recent coordinated air and ground operations across Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States, which have led to the dismantling of several militia camps, bandit enclaves, and criminal hideouts.

“These outcomes reinforce our unwavering commitment to protecting innocent lives and supporting national peace-building initiatives,” he stated.

The CAS stressed: “As long as peace is threatened, our resolve remains unshaken. The Nigerian Air Force will continue to deliver timely, decisive air support in synergy with sister services, ensuring the protection of lives and properties while advancing our mission of restoring peace to the Middle Belt and beyond.”

The Service Chiefs jointly emphasised the importance of synergy among the Armed Forces and other security agencies, noting that jointness remains a cornerstone for operational success under Operation Whirl Stroke.

They reiterated that the ongoing operations are part of a broader goal to create a secure environment where residents can live and conduct legitimate activities without fear.