The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) conducted more than 5,000 operational sorties and executed over 1,200 precision air strikes against terrorists between June 2023 and October 2025, according to former Chief of the Air Staff, Hasan Abubakar.
Abubakar made the disclosure during his Flying-Out Parade at the NAF Base in Abuja on Saturday, highlighting the Air Force’s intensified counter-insurgency and internal security operations across Nigeria.
5,000 Operational Sorties Across Key Conflict Zones
Providing an overview of NAF’s operational performance, Abubakar said the service significantly expanded its mission tempo, deploying air power across the North-East, North-West, North-Central, and South-South regions.
The missions included:
Precision air interdictions targeting terrorist enclaves
Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations
Close air support for ground troops
Anti-banditry and anti-oil theft operations
He noted that the increased sortie generation and improved aircraft serviceability were crucial in sustaining air dominance and operational presence in volatile regions.
Disrupting Terror Networks and Strengthening Joint Operations
According to the former Air Chief, the intensified air campaign disrupted terrorist logistics and supply routes, degraded insurgent fighting capacity, and provided decisive cover for troops under joint security missions, including Operation Hadin Kai.
“In addition to counter-insurgency, our air assets supported anti-banditry and anti-oil theft operations, enhancing security and enabling stability for affected communities,” Abubakar stated.
He emphasized that these coordinated air-ground operations significantly improved Nigeria’s internal security landscape during his tenure.
Focus on Training, Maintenance and Aviation Safety
Beyond combat operations, Abubakar credited enhanced training programmes, strengthened maintenance culture, and strict aviation safety standards for boosting mission readiness across all theatres of operation.
He stressed that maintaining high aircraft serviceability rates and professional discipline remains vital to sustaining operational success.
Tribute to Fallen Personnel, Call for Unity
Paying tribute to fallen officers, airmen, and airwomen, Abubakar commended their sacrifice and dedication to national security. He urged personnel to uphold professionalism, deepen inter-agency collaboration, and remain steadfast in defending Nigeria’s sovereignty.
He also called for unwavering support for the current Chief of the Air Staff, Sunday Aneke, encouraging the leadership to consolidate existing gains and ensure the Air Force remains agile, responsive, and combat-ready.
