After Lassa Students’ Rescue, Air Chief Orders More Pressure On Terrorists

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended personnel of the Air Component of “Operation HADIN KAI” and their land counterparts for the rescue of abducted students and teachers of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, in Askira Uba local government area of Borno State.

The CAS, in a statement by the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) spokesperson, Air Cdre Ehimen Ejidame, directed sustained pressure on terrorists across the country.

He described the operation as a testament to the effectiveness of intelligence-driven joint military operations in protecting innocent Nigerians and sustaining pressure on terrorist elements.

Aneke particularly lauded the swift deployment of Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) assets, alongside timely air support, which disrupted the terrorists’ movement and enabled ground troops to engage the fleeing insurgents and rescue the victims.

Referencing one of the rescued victims, Mr Paul Namaske, Vice Principal of Government Day Secondary School, Lassa, who said the arrival of the military aircraft forced the terrorists to scatter, allowing the abducted teachers and students to escape as troops advanced on the terrorists’ position.

The CAS noted that the victim’s account further validates the critical role of air power in modern counter-terrorism operations, particularly when effectively integrated with ground manoeuvre forces.

While commending the courage, professionalism and sacrifice of the troops involved in the operation, Air Marshal Aneke paid tribute to the gallant soldiers of Operation HADIN KAI and the members of the Civilian Joint Task Force who paid the supreme sacrifice during the rescue mission.

He extended his heartfelt condolences to their families and affirmed that their sacrifice will continue to inspire the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the defence of the nation.

The CAS further reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to working closely with sister Services and other security agencies to sustain ongoing operations aimed at restoring lasting peace and security across the country.