The Chief of Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has commended personnel of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) serving under the Air Component of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1 for their professionalism, resilience, and commitment to ongoing counter-terrorism operations.
A statement posted on the NAF’s official X handle on Monday said the CAS gave the commendation during the 2026 Easter Luncheon held on Sunday at the Headquarters of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1 in Kaduna. Aneke was represented at the event by the Chief of Accounts and Budget, Headquarters NAF, Air Vice Marshal Bukar.
Speaking at the gathering, the CAS described Easter as “a solemn season of sacrifice, hope, and renewal—values that closely mirror the ethos of military service,” and praised the troops for maintaining a sustained operational tempo in the fight against terrorism.
He noted that the personnel’s readiness and dedication continue to produce measurable results in degrading terrorist elements and strengthening security within the theatre of operations.
The CAS also reaffirmed the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to sustaining counter-terrorism efforts through intelligence-driven air operations, continuous mission-oriented training, improved logistics support, and enhanced personnel welfare.
He urged the troops to remain vigilant and disciplined while paying tribute to fallen heroes and personnel still deployed across challenging operational environments.
Earlier, the Air Component Commander of Operation FANSAN YAMMA Sector 1, Air Commodore OA Okpara, commended the CAS for his continued support and highlighted recent operational achievements in the area.
According to him, ongoing precision strikes, armed reconnaissance, and surveillance missions have further degraded terrorist and criminal elements while restricting their movement within the joint operations area.
The Easter luncheon featured cultural dances, musical performances, and recreational activities aimed at boosting morale and strengthening esprit de corps among personnel.
In a symbolic show of leadership support, the Special Guest of Honour, alongside the Air Officer Commanding Air Training Command, Air Vice Marshal Esen Paul Efanga, personally served meals to troops, reinforcing unity and camaraderie within the ranks.
